President Muhammadu Buhari says he remains committed to a good electoral system, as Nigeria marks 22 years of uninterrupted democratic governance
He however says all citizens must be ready to contribute their own quota towards sustaining democratic tenets.
The President made the disclosure while addressing the nation on Saturday, in commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day.
He said: “As your President, I remain committed to providing an enabling environment for a free, fair and credible electoral system under my tenure. However, you need to play your part by getting involved at any level you can supporting a democratic system that works for all and not for a section or a select few and demand accountability from your elected leaders.
“My commitment to bequeathing a sustainable democratic culture remains resolute, my pursuit of a fair society remains unshaken and my desire to see that Nigeria remains a country for each and every one of us has never been stronger.”
President Buhari acknowledged calls for constitutional reforms, saying the task rests with the National Assembly and he will not usurp the powers of the legislators.
“As your President I remain ever committed to upholding and defending Nigeria’s corporate existence.
“In responding to the challenges that this period imposes on us, Government also recognises the need to acknowledge notions of marginalisation and agitations for constitutional amendments among various segments of our population.
“While this government is not averse to constitutional reform as part of our nation building process, everyone must understand that the primary responsibility for constitutional amendments lies with the National Assembly.
“This body which, as I said, is the arm of government responsible for constitutional changes has concluded the preliminary stages of amending and improving our constitution in a way that the majority of Nigerians will be happy with.”
“Government is, however, willing to play a critical role in the constitutional amendment process without usurping the powers of the National Assembly in this regard, “ the President explained.
The Nigerian leader said the country has come a long way and it is gradually approaching where we ought to be.
He said; “overcoming the present challenges is but one of a necessary process that the country has to pass through and it will come out stronger.”
