The Rivers State Government has announced the cancellation of the October 1 parade, which was scheduled to take place at the Sharks Stadium in Port Harcourt, in commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day. This decision is in line with a recent pronouncement by the Federal Government, according to a statement issued by the Special Services Bureau, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, signed by Dede Sampson Friday.
The cancellation of the parade has been attributed to the Federal Government’s earlier announcement, which also suspended the Independence Day parade in Abuja. Although the Federal Government did not provide specific reasons for its decision, the Rivers State Government has apologized to the people of the state for any inconvenience the cancellation may have caused.
Nigeria’s Independence Day, celebrated on October 1, marks the country’s attainment of independence from British colonial rule in 1960. The annual parade is a significant event, typically attended by government officials, dignitaries, and citizens, and features ceremonial proceedings, including the hoisting of the national flag and marching by military and paramilitary units.
The Rivers State Government’s decision to cancel the parade is likely to affect the plans of many residents who had looked forward to participating in or attending the event. However, the government’s adherence to the Federal Government’s directive underscores the importance of national unity and coordination on significant occasions such as Independence Day.
As Nigeria marks its 65th year of independence, the cancellation of the parade serves as a reminder of the country’s ongoing efforts to navigate its national priorities and protocols. While the reasons behind the Federal Government’s decision remain unclear, the Rivers State Government’s apology and commitment to the people of the state demonstrate an awareness of the potential impact of the cancellation on the community.
In the coming days, residents of Rivers State and the wider Nigerian public will likely be looking for further guidance on how to commemorate the country’s independence, in the absence of the traditional parade. The government’s next steps and any alternative arrangements will be closely watched, as the nation reflects on its history, progress, and future aspirations.