The senator representing Owerri Zone in the Senate, Distinguished Senator Samdaddy Anyanwu has charged the people of Owerri Zone not to lose hope in Nigeria’s democracy despite the challenges facing the system of government in Nigeria.
He noted that while it is natural for disappointed expectations to lead to despair and anger, the people of Owerri Zone and indeed Nigerians should not give up because democracy remains the best form of government all over the world.
In a statement signed by his Media Aide, Kelechi Eke, Senator Anyanwu expressed displeasure that the enthusiasm and expectations that greeted the current democratic dispensation in 1999 is fast fading precipitating anger and disillusionment, a situation which he said should not be allowed to dampen popular morale about democracy.
Senator Anyanwu maintained that it was by deliberate choice and design that the nation chose presidential democracy as the best form of government because it is representative and all inclusive. He said that whether in or outside government, everybody is a stakeholder in the democratic process, and decried the attitude of some citizens who perceive democracy as those in government versus those outside government.
Senator Anyanwu who is the Senate Committee Chairman on Ethics, Petitions and Privileges urged governments at all levels to initiate policies and programs that are in consonance with the wishes and aspirations of the people, pointing out any program or policy that tends to bring misery on the citizenry cannot be adjudged a good package.
“The truth is that democracy does not strive on an empty stomach, hence we must collectively work hard to reduce poverty and promote the quality of the life of our citizens in order to strengthen their faith in the system” Senator Anyanwu emphasized.
The lawmaker promised that the Senate and indeed the National Assembly on its part will live up to expectations by enacting laws for the good governance of the nation, as well as monitor the implementation of the budget which according to him will go a long way in lifting the nation from its current political and economic woes.
Senator Samdaddy Anyanwu expressed regret over the recent clampdown on individuals perceived as enemies of the ruling government, and stated that this unfortunate trend is against democratic ethos. He queried the continued detention of Chief Ifeanyi Uba and others on similar charges, while expressing worry that such actions can only further dampen the citizens morale.
