Osun State Governor Commends Nigeria Military For Embracing Democracy
By Yinka Salaam, Osogbo
The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has commended the Nigerian military for adhering to democratic tenets and shunning anti-democratic acts, describing democracy as a necessity for all societies.
Governor Adeleke gave the commendation on Thursday when he received the Army Chief, General Taoheed Lagbaja who was on a nationwide visit to army formations in the country.
He condemned democratic setbacks in some parts of Africa and urged the strengthening of democratic mechanisms rather than resorting to coup d’etat.
The Governor described the Nigerian military as a thorough-bred professional service that upholds respect for the national constitution while serving as a protector of the democratic process as well as national stability.
He commissioned the civil-military school project at Alusekere, Ede, saying the army is a critical pillar of national life.
Governor Adeleke stressed that Nigerians owe the military accolades for securing and protecting the nation.
He said; “Our existence as a nation that is united despite challenges is linked to the patriotism and sacrifice of the military. When the civil population is sharply divided, the military remains united. On many occasions, the military saved our nation from disintegration.
“Your reaching out to the civil population as a policy is a giant step to further unite the nation. I commend this civil-military rapport.”
Governor Adeleke similarly expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for the speedy intervention during the recent Ifon-Ilobu crisis, saluting the patriotic action and describing the quick response as laudable.
Responding, General Lagbaja assured the Governor of continuous support for democracy and good governance.
He added that the engineering construction arm of the army is prepared to undertake projects from any willing states.
Mercy Chukwudiebere