Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has praised the Nigerian military for its commitment to democratic principles and rejection of undemocratic actions, highlighting the importance of democracy in every society.
Governor Adeleke expressed his admiration on Thursday while hosting the Chief of Army Staff, General Taoheed Lagbaja, who was on a nationwide visit to army formations across the country.
The Governor condemned setbacks to democracy in some parts of Africa and emphasized the need to strengthen democratic mechanisms rather than resorting to coup d’état.
Describing the Nigerian military as a highly professional service that upholds the national constitution and safeguards the democratic process and national stability, Governor Adeleke inaugurated the civil-military school project in Alusekere, Ede, asserting the army’s crucial role in national development.
He expressed gratitude to the military for preserving and protecting the nation, stating, “Our unity as a nation, despite challenges, is indebted to the patriotism and sacrifices of the military. While the civilian population may be divided, the military remains united. The military has saved our nation from disintegration on multiple occasions.”
“Your engagement with the civilian population is a significant step towards further unifying the nation. I commend this civil-military relationship,” the Governor added.
Moreover, Governor Adeleke thanked the Chief of Army Staff for the prompt intervention during the recent Ifon-Ilobu crisis, praising the patriotic response and considering it praiseworthy.
In his response, General Lagbaja assured the Governor of the military’s continuous support for democracy and good governance, emphasizing the army’s engineering construction arm’s readiness to undertake projects in partnership with willing states.
