Citizens for Rights and Social Justice (CRJ), a civil rights organisation advocating morality, good governance and justice for the poor, has called on Nigerians to demonstrate patriotism and engage in government initiatives to improve the country’s governance and development.
Speaking in Okota, Lagos, CRJ President, John Adesanya, urged citizens to rise above political apathy and tackle challenges hindering progress.
Delivering a lecture on the “Practical Ways Towards Patriotic Participation for Good Governance,” Adesanya noted the need for Nigerians to know the nation’s history, values, traditions and cultures to foster genuine patriotism.
He said “To be truly patriotic people need to have good knowledge of history, leaders, values, tradition and cultures in their country”
The activist decried the decline in discipline and moral standards, citing exam malpractice and reduced respect for authority in schools.
“In the past, pupils were afraid of cane and behaved well. They cheat less. But today teachers fear to discipline pupils to avoid the wrath of officials and parents.” he said.
Adesanya urged governments to be responsible, transparent, effective, accountable and responsive to ensure good governance. “Good governance is made possible by honest and responsible leaders who promptly take responsibility for the results of their actions or inactions,” he added.
“There is the opportunity for all citizens to have a voice in decision making processes, this may be directly or indirectly through elected representatives as citizens are allowed to monitor and hold the government accountable of information’s about government policies”.
Outlining practical steps for citizen participation, Adesanya urged Nigerians to engage in civic responsibilities such as voting during elections, involvement in community service, obeying laws and paying taxes, advocacy, understanding their rights and responsibilities, and promoting unity in diversity.
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