…Says MDR Will Resist Any Threat to Nigeria’s Democracy
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Accord Party presidential candidate and Co-Chairman of the Movement for Democratic Renewal (MDR), Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has condemned the reported attack on activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore and other protesters during a Democracy Day demonstration, describing the incident as a cause for concern for Nigeria’s democratic development.
Hashim said the rights to peaceful protest, freedom of expression and civic participation are fundamental pillars of democracy and should be protected at all times.
According to him, Democracy Day should serve not only as a commemoration of Nigeria’s return to civilian rule but also as a reminder of the need to uphold democratic values, including constitutionalism, justice, the rule of law and freedom of expression.
“Democracy is strengthened when citizens can freely speak, organise and demand accountability from those entrusted with power. Any attempt to suppress these freedoms weakens democracy itself,” Hashim said.
The former presidential candidate, who recently became Co-Chairman of the Movement for Democratic Renewal alongside Nigeria Labour Congress President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, said the movement was established to defend democratic values and prevent any erosion of civic freedoms in the country.
He also expressed concern over what he described as the continued legal challenges facing Sowore, including issues relating to the seizure of his passport, which he said remained unresolved despite court interventions.
Hashim stated that the MDR would continue to work with civil society groups, labour organisations and other democratic stakeholders to safeguard democratic institutions and promote citizens’ rights.
“Nigeria must not return to an era where dissent is treated as a crime and citizens are denied their democratic rights. The defence of democracy is the responsibility of all who believe in freedom and accountable leadership,” he said.
He called on security agencies and relevant authorities to respect the constitutional rights of citizens while maintaining public order and security.
Hashim further urged Nigerians to remain committed to democratic principles and to continue participating peacefully in efforts aimed at strengthening governance and accountability in the country.
