Dr. Rosalyn Dressman, the President and Founder of the Diaspora 4 Diri (D4D) Initiative, delivered a Democracy Day message urging Nigerians to remember and honor those who sacrificed their lives for the establishment of democracy in the country. Speaking at an interactive session with the group’s state, local government, and ward leadership on June 12th, Dr. Dressman emphasized the importance of protecting the hard-earned democracy and called for concerted efforts to promote its ideals.
According to Dr. Dressman, democracy is a pact between the government and its people, a commitment that guarantees the freedom of expression, the right to elect representatives, and participation in decision-making processes. She commended the Governor Douye Diri-led administration for fulfilling its promises to the people of Bayelsa by initiating projects and programs aimed at improving their living conditions.
Dr. Dressman encouraged Nigerians to use Democracy Day as an opportunity to honor and appreciate the principles of democracy, which form the foundation of people’s rights and freedoms, rather than merely considering it as another important date on the calendar. She emphasized that democracy is not just a word or concept, but a living entity driven by the will of the people.
The D4D Founder expressed that democracy is the belief that power should be distributed among the many rather than being concentrated in the hands of a single ruler, a select few, or a privileged class. It ensures that the rule of law prevails and that justice is served, regardless of the strength of the oppressor’s influence.
Dr. Dressman highlighted that democracy is a continuous journey, not a static achievement, and therefore requires constant vigilance, engagement, and participation from all individuals. She called for unity among Nigerians, emphasizing that the strength of the country’s democracy lies in its diversity.
During the interactive session, a minute of silence was observed to honor the departed souls of the Bayelsa Queens Supporters Club and the band members of the Ijaw musician, Barrister Smooth.
