Member representing Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency, Hon. Dr. Anthony Adebayo Adepoju, has urged Nigerians not to allow the current economic hardship in the country to weaken their faith in democracy, stressing that the 2027 general elections present an opportunity for citizens to make decisive political choices that will shape the future of the nation.
Hon. Adepoju made the call in a statement made available to newsmen in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital by his spokesperson, Hassan Adesodi Olaoniye on Friday to commemorate Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebration.
The federal lawmaker noted that democracy thrives not merely through periodic elections but through the active participation of citizens who refuse to surrender their voices in the affairs of governance.
According to him, Democracy Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless Nigerians who fought for democratic governance and the responsibility of citizens to sustain the gains of democracy through continuous civic engagement.
“Democracy survives not by periodic elections alone, but by citizens who refuse to surrender their voice. Today, we celebrate freedom, responsibility and the enduring power of Nigerian men and women to shape the destiny of our nation through democratic participation,” he stated.
The Ibarapa-born technocrat cum politician paid tribute to the nation’s fallen heroes and heroines who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for democracy, as well as those who suffered various forms of injuries and persecution in the course of the struggle.
He also commended Nigerians who continue to speak up, participate in governance and contribute to the sustenance of democratic institutions across the country.
The lawmaker expressed gratitude to the people and residents of Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency for the support, trust and cooperation they have extended to him over the last three years of his stewardship.
He said the encouragement from constituents had remained instrumental to the various interventions and developmental initiatives undertaken since assuming office on June 13, 2023.
“As we move closer to another election cycle, Nigerians should not be discouraged by the challenges confronting the country. Rather, they should use their experiences and democratic rights to make informed political decisions that will determine the direction of the nation in 2027,” he added.
The Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Character also lauded the Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for what he described as exemplary leadership and commitment to democratic values.
He commended Makinde’s efforts in promoting political inclusiveness, resisting tendencies that could undermine multi-party democracy and creating opportunities for young people to participate in governance across the state.
The lawmaker also extended his commendation to the Chairmen of Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Local Government Areas, Hon. Sola Adeleke and Hon. Lateef Adebare Akorede, for their contributions to grassroots development.
According to him, the developmental strides recorded under their administrations have brought governance closer to the people of Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North and strengthened public confidence in leadership at the local level.
He expressed optimism that their performances would contribute significantly to the success of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in the forthcoming local government elections in Oyo State and subsequently the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on the nationally celebrated One-Day Representative Competition, Ibarapakan acknowledged the growing anticipation among young people regarding the next edition of the initiative.
The competition, which was established to commemorate his anniversary in office and promote leadership, civic consciousness and academic excellence among teenagers, has become one of the most anticipated youth-focused programmes within and beyond the constituency.
The lawmaker disclosed that consultations and preparations were ongoing for the next edition, assuring participants that the programme would return in a bigger and improved format.
“I am aware that many of our teenagers are anxiously waiting to hear about the next edition of their favourite competition. I want to assure them that everything is under control for good. The next contest will be different and the modalities will be announced soon,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to continue to uphold the ideals of democracy, embrace peaceful coexistence and remain committed to building a more prosperous and inclusive nation.
