A press statement on Saturday June 12th 2021, signed by Comrade Michael Ikeogwu and Comrade Patrick Ochei, Chairman and Secretary respectively, unequivocally affirm that the issues that had arisen since the country became a democratic nation, have left much to be desired among the leadership of the country.
According to the release, “Rather than celebrate true tenets of democratic principles, where justice, equity, fairness and all inclusive governance reigns, our leaders have decided to take the ignoble path of
“It is unfortunate that those who massively benefitted from the struggle of the media and civil society organisations are the same people (politicians) who are the clogs in the wheel of our national progress.
“The bane of our Democracy has been the political class who have continually sown seed of discord among the unsuspecting public to keep us divided while they scavenge on our common patrimony.
“For us to celebrate as a true democratic nation and for democracy to survive in Nigeria, we must embrace collective bargaining where every region of this country must have equal stake in whatever we do as a people. There truly must be corresponding responsibility between the leaders and followers.
“The media remains the only man standing in the defense of our Democracy and development. Therefore, we charge the media to continue to play her Watchdog role in holding government accountable”.
Meanwhile, the Union has congratulated Nigerians as they mark the maiden Democracy Day in the country.
“The Union sincerely commends President Muhammadu Buhari for approving June 12 as Democracy Day in commemoration of the annulled 1993 presidential election which had been adjudged the freest and most credible in the history of Nigeria.
“We recall with nostalgia the unrelenting and gallantry role of the media in the days of the military junta. The legendary effort of the media at pushing the military out of the stage after that sad historic event of June 12, 1993, will, continue to reechoe on the sand of time”.
The Union called on all and sundry to respect democratic tenets in the interest of good governance, economic growth and political development.
“We should endeavour to respect and uphold all that June 12 stands for, knowing that it is a day that has come to remain in our history”, the release added.
