June 12: IHRC salutes Nigerians on Democracy Day

The International Human Rights Commission, IHRC, has felicitated Nigerians on the 2023 Democracy Day celebration.

The Ambassador at Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission of the IHRC to Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, in a statement issued in Abuja by his Head of Media and Strategic Communications, Fidelis Onakpoma, said Nigerians should embrace the 2023 democracy day with solidarity to building open, responsive, and accountable institutions and processes ensuring that all have the opportunity to participate and have a voice in how they will be governed.

Duru noted that countries with democratic freedoms are more prosperous, peaceful, and stable, and their citizens can enjoy their fundamental rights.

“Democratic governance and human rights are critical components of sustainable development and lasting peace, urging President Tinubu to integrate democracy and the rule of law focusing on strengthening and promoting human rights, access to justice, accountable and transparent governance that serve the needs and preferences of the public.

“We have provided critical support to some countries, this includes strengthening democratic and institutional resilience in Chad Republic, Sierra Leone, Ukraine, and other African and European Countries. Inspired by this reality, we will continue to work for democracy. We will continue to serve as a community, bringing together governments, corporations, and civil society organizations that are committed to democratic principles.

“As we mark this year’s Democracy Day, it is important that we pay tribute to all those who risked their lives in the struggle to end military dictatorship and enthrone democracy in the country. They are the heroes of our democracy, and it is my prayer that their labor of sacrifice shall not be in vain.

“I pray that God will continue to bless our beloved country, as we continue to march forward in our Democratic journey,” the statement read.