Democracy Day: Soludo calls for progressive change, ethical rebirth

By Christian ABURIME

On Nigeria’s Democracy Day, celebrated on Thursday June 12, 2025, prominent figures gathered at The Platform dialogue in Lagos to reflect on the nation’s odyssey and chart a path forward. Soul-searching speeches were delivered and critical panel discussions analysed Nigeria’s challenges and propounded solutions.

Well attended by a cross section of Nigerians from all walks of life, The Platform discourse featured Mauritius President Ameenah Gurib-Fakim who spoke on the vitality of education in national transformation; former INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega who discussed the need for electoral reforms and strengthening of democratic institutions; former Lagos State Governor Raji Fashola who addressed the imperatives of the rule of law for national development; and Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, who delivered a thought-provoking speech titled “Rebuilding Our Nation.” His address, while acknowledging the complexities of Nigeria’s history and current challenges, offered a vision for a sustainable and united Nigeria.

Governor Soludo began by acknowledging the significance of the day and expressing gratitude to the convener, Pastor Poju Oyemade, who earlier emphasised the primacy of freedom of speech in a democracy. The Governor noted that the topic of rebuilding the nation is vast and complex, invoking the historical debates among Nigeria’s founding fathers on the nature of the country. He highlighted the diverse ethnic and religious composition of Nigeria, emphasising the need for unity and shared purpose.

Prof. Soludo argued that Nigeria’s journey towards nationhood is still an aspirational goal, citing the national anthem’s plea for a nation where no one is oppressed. He suggested that the current epoch of Nigeria’s history requires a deliberate effort to create a sustainable nation, moving beyond mere and lamentations and slogans to actionable strategies.

On economic challenges, the Governor also emphasised his optimism for Nigeria’s future, focusing on the progress made despite numerous challenges. He commended the current Tinubu administration’s economic reforms, noting endorsements from international institutions like the World Bank and IMF. He urged critics to provide constructive alternatives rather than merely lamenting the state of affairs.

Drilling down to our polity and democracy, Governor Soludo identified two key areas for rebuilding the nation: ideological foundations for political parties and an ethical-value rebirth among citizens. He lamented the lack of clear ideologies in Nigeria’s political landscape, describing the current state as a “Nigerian Elite Plc” driven by opportunism rather than principles. He called for a return to ideologically driven parties, citing examples from Nigeria’s second and third republics.

Going further, the perceptive Anambra State Governor proposed the formation of a new Progressive People’s Alliance (PPA), uniting parties with progressive credentials to present a united front in the 2027 elections. This alliance, he argued, would provide a clear alternative to the status quo and drive transformative policies.

Governor Soludo also stressed the need for an ethical and value rebirth among Nigerians, advocating for a culture that rewards hard work and integrity over corruption and superstition. He highlighted Anambra State’s efforts to combat criminality and promote ethical values, including the enactment of the Homeland Security Law and initiatives to reduce corruption and promote transparency, while criminalising native doctors who promote diabolical means to quick riches via fathom money rituals.

A liberal, pan-Nigerian leader at heart and in action, Prof. Soludo called for a national conversation on citizenship, religious tolerance, and the eradication of ethnic and religious bigotry. He cited Anambra’s successes in promoting unity and inclusive governance, emphasising the need for similar efforts nationwide.

In closing, Governor Soludo urged all stakeholders in the Nigerian project to unite around a progressive agenda, focusing on education, healthcare, and the enforcement of progressive principles outlined in Nigeria’s constitution. He called for a mass movement to challenge corruption and promote ethical values, involving all sectors of society.

Governor Soludo’s speech at The Platform this year serves as a resonant rallying cry for a new Nigeria, one built on the foundations of progressive ideals, ethical values, and a united citizenry. While Nigeria continues its democratic journey towards a more prosperous, equitable and sustainable future, Prof. Soludo’s vision offers a roadmap for national transformation.

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