The Labour Party (LP) has called on Nigerians to hold the nation’s leaders accountable to fulfil their mandate.

The party, in a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa, to mark Nigeria’s 66th independence anniversary, noted that the nation is burdened by myriad economic and security challenges, “some of which are the consequences of successive years of ineffective leadership and governance.”

According to the party, Nigeria’s continued existence as one indivisible nation, despite the numerous challenges confronting her over the past 66 years, speaks to the collective resolve and understanding that her strength lies in unity and diversity.

“It would be a double tragedy for a people who have endured years of misrule to now surrender hope for their country.

“We must remember that meaningful change will only come when we, as citizens, rise to hold our leaders accountable, an obligation that cannot be fulfilled through resignation or despair,” the Labour Party stated.

It called on Nigerian leaders to emulate the exemplary leadership of Abia State governor, Dr Alex Otti, who was elected on the platform of the Labour Party.

“Given the demonstrated credible leadership taking place in Abia State, where Governor Alex Otti, a product of the Labour Party, holds sway, the party is bold to say that it is a party that has been tested and has proven its fidelity to its promises to the Nigerian people.

“Governor Otti, our pride and a role model in true leadership, has given every Nigerian yearning for change a reason to trust in the candidates of the Labour Party in the coming polls,” the statement added.

The party called on leaders to govern with empathy, justice and transparency, bearing in mind that no nation has ever achieved true development without deliberately prioritising the welfare and wellbeing of its citizens.