The concept “Democracy” has been twisted in such a way that it is very difficult to define, especially now that every political leader claims to be a democrat.
However, several scholars, political scientists, sociologists, philosophers among other have coined different meaning of the concept “democracy” the way they understood it. Thus democracy has thousands of definitions but the definition, advanced by Abraham Lincoln, a former President of the United States of America (USA) stands the test of time.
He best defined “democracy as the government of the people by the people and for the people”. Looking critically at this definition, it means that democratic government derives its power from the people, the government must do the will of the people for the overall interest of the people. Abraham Lincoln’s definition of democracy has been adjudged the best in the history of governance and social sciences.
Nigeria gained her political autonomy in October 1, 1960. Since then she has witnessed different types of government ranging Parliamentarian System, Presidential System, Military Administration, Diarchy to Interim National Government (ING). Severally the military officers have intervened in the political affairs of Nigeria as a nation. Military are not trained in the art of governance but warfare, hence most of the problems confronting Nigeria are as a result of long stay of the military officers on managing the affairs of the country. Military government has become aberration, at such the wind of democracy is blowing across the globe.
From the year 1999, Nigeria has never experienced any military incursion in politics. By May 29, 2015; Nigerians shall celebrate 16 years of uninterrupted democracy and it worth celebrating.
Our democracy is no longer fledging but advancing and growing from strength to strength. The 16 years democratic rule has given Nigerians so many opportunities especially in the area of exercising their fundamental human rights.
It is my joy that as the nation moves into next political dispensation on May 29, 2015, in Rivers State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government under the watchful eyes of Chief Barr. Ezebunwo Nyesom Wike is in charge. And I do hope that considering his wealth of experience, Chief Wike is in position to bring positive development into the state.
I will plead with all and sundry to give their total support to Chief Barr. Ezebunwo Nyesom Wike as he set to take the Rivers State to the next level. ###
Damiete West
08037502931
wdamiete@yahoo.com
