As Nigeria marks her 60th Anniversary of Independence today, the Member representing Bende North State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly,Hon Chijioke Chukwu, has revealed that for Nigeria to enthrone a true democracy that is accountable to its citizens,a more radical political reforms should be employed.
In a chat with our reporter,Hon Chukwu while accessing the Political journey of Nigeria,since Independence till date,said though the Nation has not fared well politically, but there are room for improvement,only if our leader, would strengthen the political institutions above individual or ethnic interest.
According to the Lawmaker, at 60,Nigeria has been able to transit successfully from one civilian administration to another,but she is still faced with some political upheavals that challenge the peaceful coexistence and development of the nation.
Hon Chukwu stated that Nigeria needs more reforms that could put it on the pedestrian of development, stating that the electoral reforms for example, should allow citizens choose credible leaders that are true representatives of the people.
He said the just concluded Edo election would further tell one,how weak and backward our electoral system is, revealing that strong aggrieved political forces were contending for the total control of Edo resources, abhoring Individual interest over state or party interest.
Hon Chukwu, however, praised the efforts of the President Muhammadu Buhari’s led administration for providing a level playing field for the citizens to exercise their legitimate franchise devoid of intimidation and institutional harassment,so that Edo people could defend their interests.
He further maintained that the electoral reforms is not just about casting and counting of votes, but has to involve total process,procedure of the entire election process including legitimizing the use of card readers to enhance transparency.
While urging his constituents as well as the good people of Abia state to have faith in Nigeria and the leadership of the Governor of the state, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, to address all their legitimate grievances, revealed that the Speaker of the Abia House of Assembly, Engr Chinedum Orji, would not relent in their oversight functions.
He added that he would ensure his constituents are not shortchanged in the distribution of resources, enjoining Nigerians to be hopeful as they celebrate, pointing out that soon,the nation would overcome all the challenges confronting her and be better, maintaining that all great nations of today,witnessed some form of challenges at one time or the other in their quest for greatness.
