Nigeria at 60: NBA urges rededication to democratic ideals

As Nigeria celebrates 60 years of nationhood, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has advised governments and the citizens to rededicate themselves to democractic ideals.

In a statement on Thurday, NBA President, Mr Olumide Akpata, said that governments and citizens should have more respect for the Constituion and court orders.

In the statement tagged “Nigerian Bar Association Diamond Jubilee Message”, Akpata said that the Constituion must be the bedrock for survival of the nation’s democracy.

He called for collective responsibility and oneness on the part of Nigerians.

“The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) joins all Nigerians in celebrating the grand occasion of the 60th anniversary of our great nation as an independent and sovereign entity.

“It seems like a few years ago that we celebrated the 50th anniversary of our independence in 2010.

“Indeed, while we have abundant reasons to celebrate our continuous existence as a nation, it is important to acknowledge that recent events have tested our collective resolve.

“It is a testament to our resilience and collective will that we have weathered and continued to weather these storms

“The NBA uses this occasion to call on the government and people of Nigeria to rededicate ourselves to our democractic ideals of respect for the fundamental principles of our union including respect for the supremacy of the constituion and the rule of law,” he said.

Akpata called for obedience to all orders of courts, respect for the fundamental rights of citizens and continued strive toward a country based on equity and fairness. (NAN)