By Omonu YG Nelson
Kano, Nigeria – The Democratic Reorientation Circle (DRC), a non-partisan initiative dedicated to promoting democratic values and principles in Nigeria, has held its first pre-inaugural meeting on August 31, 2024, at Sultanate Hotel, Kano. The meeting marked a significant step towards the actualization of the DRC’s vision of bridging the gap between the government and the governed.
According to the communique signed and issued by Convener and President, Engr Abubakar Murtala, at the end of the meeting, the DRC aims to promote democratic values and principles in Nigeria by conducting educational programs and campaigns to increase awareness on democratic values and governance processes among Nigerians. The initiative also seeks to encourage active participation in democratic processes by providing platforms for dialogue and interaction between citizens and their representatives.
Key issues identified during the meeting include the monetization of elections, which makes it difficult for individuals with limited resources to participate in the electoral process. The meeting also noted that many constituents hardly understand what they should expect from both elected and appointed officials. Furthermore, ethnicity and religion are often prioritized over capacity, competence, and integrity in voting candidates into elective offices.
To address these issues, the DRC resolved to reorient the electorates on democratic ideals through awareness creation. The initiative plans to collaborate with other partners to ensure continuous engagement of citizens on democratic processes and principles through advocacy, dialogues, and capacity-building programs.In a call to action, the DRC urged Nigerians to support its cause by promoting democratic values and good governance. The initiative also implored Nigerians to vote based on competence and integrity, rather than ethnicity or religion. Additionally, the DRC called on citizens to ensure that leaders fulfill their campaign promises.
“We need to reorient the electorates on the ideals of democracy through awareness creation,” said Ishak Hussain Mohammed, Chairman of the Communique Drafting Committee. “This is crucial for the sustenance of our democracy.”
The DRC’s Convener and President, Abúbakar, emphasised the importance of promoting democratic values and good governance in Nigeria. “We must work together to build a Nigeria where democracy is respected and cherished by all,” he said.
The meeting was attended by stakeholders from various backgrounds, including civil society organizations, community leaders, and individuals passionate about promoting democratic values in Nigeria.