A Coalition of Civil Society Organisations yesterday advocated further electoral reforms and deepening of the justice system in the country.
They made the call in a statement while marking the one-year memorial anniversary of Dare Atoye-Ariyo, a strong advocate of social justice, electoral reforms and democratic governance who died of lung cancer on October 27, 2022. Atoye-Ariyo was the executive director of Adopt-A-Goal until his death.
The CSOs included Adopt A Goal; Concerned Nigerians; Eagle Badger; Abuja School of Social and Political Thoughts; Raising New Voices Initiative; ReadyToLeadAfrica; Centre for Liberty, Nwanne_Di_Na_Mba_Foundation.
A statement signed by Mr Kunle Afolabi of Adopt A Goal tasked Nigerians to resist injustice, foster understanding and support one another in times of need.
It said the late activist was a tireless advocate, social critic and passionate staunch defender of the masses.
“Atoye-Ariyo was an advocacy hub of socio political change makers committed to social reengineering of the Nigerian civic space, enduring institutional reforms, strengthening of democratic governance and values.
“He also stood for the defence of human and social justice, through which he sought accountability from the Nigerian government. He was sacrificial and patriotic in fighting for democracy and good governance in Nigeria.
“He worked very hard to ensure the reform of the Nigerian electoral system.
He led efforts to pressure the National Assembly to pass into law, a new electoral regime that included electronic transmission of results and other innovations to ensure free, fair, and credible elections,” he said.
Afolabi said Atoye-Ariyo was more than an advocate; he was a beacon of hope, a voice for the voiceless, and a symbol of unwavering courage.
He said to honour Atoye-Ariyo, memorial events would be held in Abuja from October 27 through December urging people to participate in the events.
He called for donations to be made throughout the period to charitable organisations, public primary and secondary schools as causes close to Atoye-Ariyo’s heart.
