The Rule of Law and Accountability Centre (RULAC) says Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary should be a time for sober reflection, not just celebration.
In a statement, the Executive Director of RULAC, Okechukwu Nwanguma, said the promise of independence won in 1960 through the sacrifice of Nigeria’s founding leaders remains largely unfulfilled.
“October 1, 1960, marked a historic turning point as our forebears secured independence from colonial rule,” Nwanguma said.
“They envisioned a nation built on freedom, justice, unity, and prosperity. Sixty-five years later, the question we must ask is how much freedom do we truly have, and how far have our leaders taken us on the path of development?”
He lamented that corruption, poor governance, insecurity, and economic hardship continue to define life for millions of Nigerians, while only a privileged few enjoy wealth and comfort.
“Elections, meant to be the cornerstone of democracy, are repeatedly subverted through rigging and fraud,” he said.
“Independence anniversaries should not be reduced to empty rituals. Government must remember its constitutional duty to guarantee the security and welfare of the people.”
Nwanguma urged Nigerians to rise to their civic duty by defending democracy and demanding accountability.
“Until this is taken seriously, happy independence will ring hollow,” he said.
“At 65, Nigeria stands at a crossroads: continue on the path of decline or reclaim the spirit of independence.
"The time has come for Nigerians to insist on a country that works for all.”
