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By Sola Isola
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on Wednesday rolled out four enabling actions elected leaders across Africa must take to save African democracy from ongoing regression and disruption.
Represented by the Commissioner for Federal Affairs, Mrs Adenike Adeleke , the Governor spoke at the 45th anniversary of the Nigerian Society for International Law, in Abuja with the theme: ‘International Law, Democracy and Unconstitutional Changes of Government in Africa’
According to the Governor, “We are gathered here at a trying time for democracy in Africa. The sustainability of democracy is being tested and it is safe to declare that democracy is on trial.
“As a sitting Governor, I hold some unorthodox positions among my colleagues. Survival of democracy is in the hands of elected leaders. We have huge responsibilities in this respect.
“How we wield state power, how we govern and how we handle state resources will either make or mar the democratic system. This is a fact in Nigeria as in other African countries.
“I have four recipes for sustaining democracy through rule of law in Africa.First, we must ensure free and fair elections. Voters must not be stripped of the right to vote and be voted for. Elected leaders should not deploy state apparatus to frustrate the will of the people.
“Secondly, we must deliver on good governance. The needs of our people are not much. We must serve the people and let them see and taste the dividends of democracy.
“Thirdly, we must adhere to the rule of law and due process. Democracy is rule based. We must govern with the fear of God within constitutional and legal provisions.
“Last but not the least, let us maintain the sanctity of the constitution with respect to term limits. Presidential term limits should not be tampered with.
“If we apply the above criteria, we will save our democracy from imminent threats. If we fail to observe the above four stipulations , we are setting the stage for further erosion of democracy in Africa”, the Governor noted in his speech.
The event was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life.
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