At 66th Independence, Saraki Challenges Youths to Hold Leaders Accountable

Bukola Saraki, Nigeria's former Senate President, has called on the nation's youth to insist on greater accountability, more opportunities, and improved governance from their elected officials as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence anniversary. In his Independence Day statement released on Thursday, Saraki asserted that young Nigerians, having matured within a democratic framework, are fully entitled to expect more from both the country and its leadership, particularly regarding their education, employment prospects, security, and future aspirations.

Reflecting on Nigeria's political evolution, the former governor of Kwara State noted that the profound significance of democracy is more readily grasped by those who experienced military rule and witnessed the nation's return to civilian administration in 1999. Saraki stated, “For those of us who lived through military rule, our return to democracy in 1999 meant a great deal. Simply being able to choose our leaders felt like a victory. Because it was.”

However, he highlighted that the expectations of the younger demographic are shaped by a distinct reality, as many have never known military dictatorship or the political instability that preceded Nigeria's democratic transition. Saraki argued that this younger generation is therefore justified in questioning whether the current democratic system is delivering tangible improvements in their daily lives.

“But imagine saying this to a young Nigerian today, one navigating university, national service, or years of looking for a job. They understand that democracy matters,” Saraki explained. He added, “They would just like to know when this democracy that we celebrate will begin to make a difference in their own lives.”

The former Senate President enumerated several critical questions facing young Nigerians, such as timely completion of their education, securing employment, living safely, and building fulfilling lives without feeling compelled to migrate abroad. He quoted young Nigerians asking, “Can I finish school on time? Will I find work? Can I travel safely? Do I really have to leave my country to have a chance at the life that I want?”

Saraki emphasized that these concerns should not be misconstrued as a loss of faith in Nigeria, contending that demanding better living conditions can itself be an act of patriotism. He observed that young Nigerians are increasingly aware of the country's vast potential and the widespread talent across various sectors, yet they struggle to access opportunities that would allow them to thrive.

“These are fair questions. And those of us who have held public office, myself included, owe young Nigerians better answers,” Saraki remarked. He continued, “I do not believe that any young Nigerian asking these questions loves the country less. Sometimes, loving your country means refusing to accept less than what you know it can be.”

The former Senate President, who served from 2015 to 2019, further noted that young Nigerians can perceive the possibilities around them and are justified in questioning why so many gifted citizens must contend with significant challenges to achieve basic aspirations. “You see the talent all around you. And you wonder why so much of it must struggle so hard to gain so little,” Saraki said.

He subsequently encouraged young Nigerians to maintain high expectations of those seeking their votes, advising that these expectations should shape the questions they pose to candidates and the standards they demand from elected officials. Saraki also urged youths to remain actively engaged in governance beyond election periods, stressing that civic participation should not cease once ballots have been cast. “Let that expectation shape how you vote, the questions you ask, and what you are prepared to accept from those you elect. And when the elections are over, keep paying attention,” he concluded.

Saraki stated that Nigeria's 66th Independence anniversary should also serve as a moment for political leaders to reflect on their obligations to the younger population. He ended his message by extending warm Independence Day wishes to all Nigerians. Nigeria annually observes its Independence Day on October 1st, commemorating its freedom from British colonial rule in 1960, a national holiday marked by official ceremonies, cultural displays, and other events nationwide.