Political activist Deji Adeyanju has expressed disappointment over Nigeria’s state of affairs, declaring that there are no visible signs of progress to justify celebrating the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary. In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, Adeyanju argued that Independence Day should symbolize continuous work toward genuine nation-building rather than serve as a mere ceremonial date.
According to him, democracy in the country has been grossly undermined, with its presence only felt at the federal level in Abuja, while at the subnational levels, governors wield unchecked power with little or no accountability. He criticized the growing immunity and protection state leaders enjoy, noting that their rising salaries and allowances stand in sharp contrast to the absence of scrutiny over their actions.
Adeyanju particularly faulted the federal government’s failure to enforce the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy, stressing that leaders cannot pick and choose which laws to obey. On the federal cabinet, he lamented that only about four ministers appear to be actively working, while others remain “ghost ministers,” existing in name but absent in performance.
The activist also decried the state of insecurity in the country, pointing to recurring attacks by so-called “unknown gunmen” who continue to instill fear across communities. He insisted that independence cannot have true meaning in a country where citizens live under constant threat of violence and insecurity.
He maintained that Independence Day must transcend parades and speeches, serving instead as a sober reminder of the unfinished task of building a Nigeria where democracy thrives, accountability is enforced, and security is guaranteed for all citizens.
