59th Independence: Nigeria has cause to celebrate—Ex-lawmaker

Unity
By Deborah Coker

Benin, Sept 30, 2019 (NAN) Chief Akpodiogaga Emeyese, former House of  Representatives members says Nigeria has reason to celebrate the 59th independencey, having remained as “one of the indivisible nations in the world.

Emeyese,who represented Ethiope Federal Constituency of Delta on the platform of the Peoples Democratic party (PDP) between  2011 and 201, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Benin on Monday.

“In spite of the several challenges faced by Nigerians and Nigeria, we have not compromised our unity. For this, I make bold to say that, Nigeria has every cause to celebrate.

“Nigeria at 59 may have fallen short of expectations of some of its citizens among other challenges, the fact remains that we have managed to stand as a united nation.

He, however, stressed the need for the Federal Government to“ take urgent and deliberate steps “ to address the issue of restructuring and fiscal federalism to enhance unity and development in the country.

Similarly, Mr Peter Esele, a former president of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), said that there was need for Nigerians to celebrate in spite of “the stormy and turbulent road“ the nation had passed through andremained as one.

He, however, called on the leadership to enhance effort in addressing insecurity and corruption, ensure effective implementation of the autonomy of the local governments, provide more employment and guarantee conducive environment for businesses to thrive.

“We must see our country not as an extension of self, but an opportunity to serve,” he said. (NAN)
DCO/KOO/UA

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa/Dada Ahmed