Members of Nigerian Senate expressed different views regarding the 53^rd Independence Anniversary celebration of Nigeria coming up on October 1.

According to what CEOAFRICA.com gathered, most of the Senators decried the pitiable condition of this country while contributing to a motion entitled: “Congratulations to Nigeria and Nigerians on her 53^rd Independence Anniversary.”

Some of them said the country is in this present slow pace of development due to sentimental and parochial inclinations of the nation’s leaders both past and present, while others identified corruption as the major cause of problems confronting this country.

The motion was sponsored by Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba and 10 other Senators.

During his lead debate, Senator Ndoma-Egba highlighted that from May 29, 1999, till date, the country has recorded its longest period of democracy since October 1,1960 when it gained independence. He said the Senate should congratulate President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the government and the people of Nigeria on this auspicious occasion.

While informing the lawmakers that the Independence Anniversary would be celebrated inside the forecourt of the Aso Rock Villa, Senate President, David Mark, urged leaders to put in their best in eradicating underdevelopment, suppression and unemployment in Nigeria.

Mark called for a return to the Old National Anthem, saying it represents a way forward for the country.