News Investigators/ Nenadi Usman, the National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), has called on political leaders across Nigeria to embrace patriotism, tolerance and issue-based politics as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Mrs Usman said this in Jos on the sidelines of the 80th birthday anniversary celebrations of Sen. Jonah Jang, the former governor of Plateau.
This is contained in a statement by Ken Asogwa, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, issued on Saturday in Abuja.
Mrs Usman said the nation’s progress was largely depended on the willingness of its political class to place national interest above personal and partisan considerations.
According to her, while political competition remains an essential ingredient of democracy, it must never be allowed to degenerate into bitterness, hatred or the destruction of the country’s social fabric.
“The next election should not be a battle against fellow Nigerians. It should be a contest of ideas, competence and character.
“When elections are over, we must all return to the same Nigeria.
“That is why patriotism must always be greater than politics,”she said.
The national chairman of LP, further stressed the need for leaders who would unite rather than divide, inspire hope instead of fear, and build bridges across political, ethnic and religious lines.
“Our political parties may be different, but our country is one.
“We owe the future generations the responsibility of conducting politics without destroying the bonds that hold our nation together,”she added.
While calling for greater civility in the nation’s political space, Usman urged politicians and their supporters to reject inflammatory rhetorics and embrace mutual respect.
She noted that no democratic system can flourish where intolerance replaces dialogue, adding that disagreements should strengthen democracy rather than weaken national unity.
“We must disagree without becoming enemies.
“Democracy flourishes where there is tolerance, respect for differing opinions and an unwavering commitment to peace,”Usman said.
Reflecting on Jang’s 80th birthday, Usman described the elder statesman as a patriot whose decades of service in both the military and democratic governance have earned him a respected place in Nigeria’s history.
She noted that Jang’s career exemplifies discipline, courage, sacrifice and dedication to national service, particularly as a distinguished military officer, governor of Plateau and senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“At 80, Jang represents a generation of leaders whose lives remind us that public office is ultimately about service, honour and legacy.
“We celebrate not only his longevity but also his enduring contributions to nation building,”she said.
Usman, who wished Jang sound health, strength and years of impactful service to Nigeria, prayed for God’s blessings upon him.
NAN
