Nigeria At 66: Labour Party Urges Hope Despite Numerous Challenges

The Labour Party has joined millions of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora in celebrating the 66th anniversary of the nation’s independence.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, National Publicity Secretary, Ken Eluma Asogwa, said while the party acknowledges many missed opportunities and unfulfilled expectations over the decades, there is still much to celebrate.

He noted that Nigeria’s continued existence as one indivisible nation, despite the numerous challenges confronted in the past 66 years, speaks to collective resolve.

According to him, the development also shows an understanding that the nation’s strength lies in its unity and diversity.

He admitted that Nigerians are today burdened by myriad economic and security challenges confronting the country.

The party said some of the challenges are consequences of successive years of ineffective leadership and governance.

It, however, urged citizens not to despair as they continue to strive and hope for a better future.

The party said, “There will surely be joy in the morning. It would be a double tragedy for a people who have endured years of misrule to now surrender hope for their country.”

Asogwa stressed that meaningful change will only come when citizens rise to hold their leaders accountable.

He noted that such obligation cannot be fulfilled through resignation or despair.

The party urged Nigerians to look in the direction of the Labour Party for exemplary leadership.

The party said it has fielded competent and credible candidates for the coming general elections, from presidential to state assembly positions.

It cited the leadership in Abia State under Governor Alex Otti as an example of its capacity to deliver on promises made to Nigerians.

It called on those in positions of authority to govern with empathy, justice and transparency, prioritising citizens’ welfare and wellbeing.

The party reaffirmed its faith in the Nigerian people and in the nation’s capacity to overcome its present challenges and fulfil its enormous potential.