By Milcah Tanimu

Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani has urged President Bola Tinubu to unite the nation through the ideals of freedom, equity, and justice. Sani emphasized that national symbols alone cannot achieve unity among Nigerians.

Speaking at a special dinner marking Democracy Day at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja on Wednesday, Sani highlighted the importance of leadership grounded in democratic values. He reminded Tinubu of the responsibility he bears, not only as a leader but as someone who emerged from the struggle for democracy.

“Mr. President, I will like to draw your attention to this fact and this truth: a national anthem cannot unite a nation, a national pledge cannot unite a nation, a constitution cannot unite a nation. A nation is united by the ideals of freedom, equity, and justice,” Sani stated.

He further noted that democracy in Nigeria was achieved through significant struggle and sacrifice, not as a benevolent gift from the military or a chance lottery win.

“Mr. President, you have a duty to succeed. If you succeed, we will share your glory because you came from the trenches, you came from that struggle, you came from that period of sacrifice. If you fail, they will say that those of you who fought for democracy have nothing new to offer Nigeria,” Sani concluded.

Sani’s remarks underscore the weight of expectations on Tinubu’s administration to uphold the principles that were fought for during Nigeria’s transition to democracy.