In response to the directive issued by the Federal Government to have a subdued celebration of Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Day, the Ogun State government announced on Tuesday the cancellation of all planned festivities originally scheduled for Sunday, October 1st, 2023.
This decision, disclosed through an official statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, aligns the state with the federal directive aimed at reflecting the current national mood.
The government has urged citizens of Ogun State to utilize the day for solemn prayer and reflection on the state of the nation.
“Following the directive of the Federal Government that this year’s Independence Day Celebration should be low-key, the Ogun State Government has canceled all arrangements in respect of the anniversary on October 1st, 2023,” the statement read.
Elaborating on the reasons for the low-key approach, the statement further elucidated, “The decision by the federal government is to reflect the mood of the nation. The state government enjoins citizens of the state to spend the time solemnly praying for the country.”
“It is the strong belief of the government under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun that the supplications of the people at this crucial time will be answered by God. We seek the understanding and cooperation of all and sundry as we observe a low-key independence anniversary this year, believing that better times lie ahead of us as a people”.
The cancellation of the Independence Day celebration underscores the gravity of the challenges currently facing Nigeria and the need for unity and prayer as the nation works toward a more promising future.
