Civil Society Leaders Urge Nigerians to Reject Ethnic Politics, Demand True Democracy
Members of civil society groups and prominent lawyers have called on Nigerians to rise to their constitutional responsibility in entrenching a genuine, inclusive electoral process and strengthening participatory democracy in the country.
They also warned citizens against voting along ethnic, religious, or political lines, urging them instead to make informed choices based on merit and verifiable track records of candidates.
These submissions were made at the 2025 Annual Summit organised by Amb. Musbau Olatunji, National Coordinator of the Movement for Human Rights Volunteers, held at Mosan-Okunola LCDA in the Ipaja area of Lagos State.
The summit was themed: “2027 Elections and Beyond: Is the Nigerian Project Worth Dying to Defend?”
Speaking at the event, former President of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), Barr. Malachy Ugwummadu, described Amb. Musbau Olatunji as one of the greatest heroes of Nigeria’s democracy.
He noted that the convener, alongside other civil society figures, confronted the military at a time when the masses suffered brutality and oppression. According to him, Olatunji’s sacrifices remain unforgettable.
“It is not a matter of numbers, but of people committed to changing society,” Ugwummadu added while delivering a solidarity message from renowned human rights lawyer, Barr. Femi Falana, who sent his best wishes to the celebrant.
Also speaking, Comrade Kehinde Adeoye, immediate past Lagos State Chairman of the CDHR, emphasized that the primary responsibility of government is to protect the lives and property of every citizen.
In his remarks, the Spokesperson of the Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Seye Oladejo, stated that the President is tackling the nation’s security challenges head-on. He added that citizens must also play their part in winning the battle.
Responding to questions from participants, Oladejo stressed that Nigerians must not shy away from asking questions about government welfare programmes designed to improve their well-being.
Constitutional lawyer, human rights activist, and President of the Voters’ Awareness Initiative, Mr. Wale Ogunade, thanked attendees for dedicating their time to honouring the celebrant. He urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in the pursuit of justice, equity, and a better future.
In his vote of thanks, Amb. Musbau Olatunji Akinyemi reflected on more than three decades of activism, noting that despite his sacrifices and personal suffering, he has no alternative to Nigeria.
He vowed to remain on the side of the people and the truth, assuring the audience that he would never compromise with politicians.
The summit also marked 36 years of activism and the 61st birthday of Amb. Musbau Olatunji Akinyemi.
