Ajia Urges Nigerian Leaders to Embrace True Democracy
By Kaosara Olayemi Oladimeji
Associate Professor Dr. Abdulmumeen Yinka Ajia, of the University of Missouri, has urged Nigerian leaders to uphold democratic principles during an interactive session with the Association of Kwara State Online Media Practitioners.
Highlighting a historical perspective, Dr. Ajia suggested that only military governments in Nigeria have successfully conducted free and fair elections, criticizing past civilian administrations for irregularities attributed to selfishness.
Dr. Ajia advocated for a renewed commitment to democratic processes, emphasizing the need for leaders to rise above sentiments.
READ ALSO: Kwara Budget: BBYDI Raises Concerns Over N1b for KWASIEC, N1.7m for Climate Change Office
Using Kwara State as a case study, he addressed the dire state of local government areas and calls on Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to prioritize planning for local government elections.
Commending the governor’s progress, Dr. Ajia noted the long journey ahead in achieving the envisioned Kwara State. He stressed the importance of continuity, citing Senator Yahaya Oloriegbe’s exemplary tenure and expressing hope for the same from Sen. Saliu Mustapha.
Dr. Ajia suggested specific areas for Senator Mustapha’s focus, including facilitating agricultural industries, aiding the less privileged, promoting human capital development, and creating opportunities for the youth.
He proposed engaging in soyabean and cashew production as potential revenue streams and job opportunities for young people.
