I find it quite appealing to join well meaning Nigerians in celebrating this historic day in our nation’s democracy. Appealing NOT because we are where we are supposed to be, but for the mere fact that our democracy shows some signs of growing and deepening, an indication that there is still a high hope. As a nation, today our democracy is uninterruptedly 21 years and that speaks so much volume on the gains and growth of our democracy.

As a people, today is a day for us to have a sober reflection on the past 21 years of democratic practice to examine whether or not we have gotten it right.


Taking a stock of all that is been obtainable in the past years (from 1999 till date), it is quite obvious that we have not gotten it right as a people yet. The ugly trends steering us in the face are quite enormous and going forward, lasting solutions should be provided to ensure the menace are tackled and put to a permanent end for development to thrive.

In my own opinion, I would say that our democratic practices have been marred and characterized by quite a number of negative factors which has left us undeveloped and disunited as a people till date with a glimmer of hope hold unto though.

Going forward, I submit that there should be more unity of purpose in our dealings. We have been divided across board for political reasons and gains so much so that unity of purpose is totally absent in the polity. The sad moments where you hear people say "I am Ngas, I'm Mupun, I'm Taroh, I'm Goemai, I'm Berom" and several other tribal identifications should be over! It is sad that the dreams of our founding fathers for a united plateau is being shattered by these kind of divisions and we all seem to be keeping quiet because the divide has been beneficial to the elites who have put our people under the apron strings of their selfish interests.            I look forward to a time when the only means of identification will be Plateau and not tribe. Most importantly, I look forward to a time when our collective interest will be Plateau and not our tribal or religious inclinations. 

To our elected political leaders, I congratulate you very deeply for clocking one year in office and pray God to continually bless you with all that you desire to do more for your people. Bear it in mind that a lot is expected of you as an elected leader and no reason whatsoever will be accepted for failing our people. It is important you remember that posterity remains the ultimate judge.

I foresee greater years of togetherness as plateau people going forward. I equally foresee an improved unity of purpose which will drive down development to the commonest man.

Congratulations to all Plateau people and Nigerians once again.

KUMWEN WALSHAK MUSA.

count | 13

DEMOCRACY DAY 2020: KUMWEN WALSHAK MUSA CLAMOURS FOR UNITY OF PURPOSE; GOING FORWARD