Citizens play an important role in the functioning of a democratic system by fulfilling some responsibilities.
Among these responsibilities is the obedience to the laws, rules and regulations that govern the land.
The adherence to established legal frameworks not only ensures stability and order within the society but also contributes significantly to the preservation of democratic principles and the protection of the lives of citizens.
It is through this commitment to lawfulness that citizens actively participate in the maintenance of a thriving democratic environment, where the rule of law acts as the bedrock for a just and equitable society.
The duties of citizens are the responsibilities that citizens perform to enable the state fulfil its obligations, which include the provision of security of lives and property of citizens and, the protection of fundamental rights of the citizens.
The performance of these obligations by the citizens promotes democracy and good governance. The obligations of citizens are:
1. Loyalty to the State
The citizens owe the government, constituted authority, and the nation unreserved loyalty and obedience. They should be willing to serve the nation, protect her honour and dignity, and pay the supreme sacrifice if need be.
2. Obedience to Law and Order
Citizens are expected to obey the laws of the state to promote orderliness, peace, and the general well-being of society. Nationals should avoid acts that endanger peace and disrupt society.
3. Payment of Taxes and Rates
Every taxpayer is expected to pay their taxes and rates at the appropriate time and to the appropriate authority because no human organisation can function well without finances. Hence, citizens who are gainfully employed should support the government through the payment of taxes and levies.
4. Voting During Elections
Citizens are expected to exercise their voting rights during elections. The right to vote in elections and also to aspire for public office through election or appointment should be utilised.
5. Respect for the National Flag and Anthem
Civilians should stand at attention and show respect for the national anthem and flag. Regard should also be had for other national monuments.
6. Respect for the Dignity of other Citizens and their Rights
The citizens should respect the rights and legitimate interests of others and live in harmony with one another. Society would be better if people learned to respect the rights of others.
7. Promotion of Common Brotherhood and Good Neighborliness
Citizens ought to foster unity and positive relationships with their neighbours. Responsible citizens should learn the appropriate way to live and interact with others.
8. Contribution to the Advancement, Progress, and Well-being of the Community
Positive and useful contributions to the development of the community should be made.
9. Assistance in Maintaining Law and Order
Civilians should help appropriate and lawful agencies in the maintenance of law and order. They should report suspicious behaviour and endeavour to assist in investigations.
10. Declaration of Income
Taxpayers should declare their income honestly to appropriate and lawful agencies and pay their taxes promptly.
11. Protection of Public Utilities
Public utilities are public goods and they are built with taxpayers’ money and other public resources. They ensure the welfare and general well-being of the citizens; and must be protected against theft, vandalism and wilful damage. These public utilities include public boreholes, electricity transformers, cables, roads, bridges etc.
12. Crime Fighting
Citizens are encouraged to assist the police and the state security agencies in fighting crimes. They can do this by reporting or providing information to the agencies concerning suspected criminals, criminal activities and hideouts.
13. Defense of the Nation
Good nationals should work for the good of the nation, by protecting its national interest at all times. This includes the willingness to lay down their lives to defend the nation if the need arises.
Conclusion
These obligations are essential for the smooth functioning of society and for fostering a peaceful and progressive environment in Nigeria.
