DEMOCRACY DAY: D4D President Advocates Remembrance of Heroes
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D4D Founder/President
by Oyagiri EmeleThe President and Founder of Diaspora 4 Diri (D4D) Initiative, Dr Rosalyn Dressman, has called on Nigerians to remember those who gave their lives in order to enthrone democracy in the country.
Dressman made the call in her Democracy Day message at an interactive session with state, local government areas and ward leadership of the group on Monday, June 12th at its secretariat, Kpansia – Yenagoa.
Dr Dressman reminded members of the initiative and Nigerians that the democracy being enjoyed today was hard earned through struggle and sacrifices, therefore should be protected.
The D4D President, who described democracy as a pact between the government and its people, called for concerted efforts to promote its ideal.
She applauded the Governor Douye Diri led administration for fulfilling his pact with Bayelsans by embarking on projects and programmes that will uplift the living conditions of the people.
She said; “Let us take a moment to remember them and show our gratitude for the sacrifices they have made.
“Indeed, democracy is a promise, a pact between a government and its people. It is a commitment that the people shall have the freedom to voice their opinions, elect their representatives, and participate in the decisions that shape their future,”
She advised that the day should be used to honour and appreciate the ideals of democracy which is the foundation for the people’s rights and freedoms, rather than marking an important day on the calendar.
The D4D Founder, who is the author of Promoting, Protecting Democracy, posited that democracy is more than just a word or a concept, added that it is not a marketing gag but a living, breathing entity and the heartbeat is the will of the people.
Her words; “Today, as we gather here to celebrate Democracy Day, let us first take a moment to appreciate the precious virtue of democracy itself. We are gathered not just to mark a date on the calendar, but to honour an ideal which is the very foundation of any free society – the principle of democracy.
“The right of individuals to self-determination, the power to choose our leaders, and the privilege to have our voice heard.”
She further explained that: “Democracy is the belief that power should not be in the hands of a single ruler, selected few, or a privileged class, but that it should be distributed among the many, based on the shared understanding that all individuals are equal in their rights and freedoms.
“It is an assurance that the rule of law will prevail, and justice will be served, regardless of the might of the oppressor or the strength of the oppressor’s influence.”
The Socio-Political Activist assured that she would not rest on her oars because democracy is not a static achievement but a continuous journey, adding that it demands constant vigilance, continual engagement, and tireless participation from each other.
Dressman called for the unity of Nigerians , saying that the strength of the country’s democracy lies in its diversity.
Highlights of the session was an observation of a minute silence for the departed souls of the Bayelsa Queens Supporters Club and the band members of the Ijaw musician, Barrister Smooth.
