DEMOCRACY DAY: OKPEBHOLO URGES UNITY, VIGILANCE TO STRENGTHEN NIGERIA’S DEMOCRACY

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has called on Nigerians to remain vigilant, united, and committed to strengthening democratic institutions as the country grapples with insecurity, economic challenges, and threats to public trust.

In his Democracy Day message, the governor said June 12 should not only be a day to remember the sacrifices of Nigeria’s democratic heroes but also a time for citizens and leaders to recommit themselves to protecting the nation’s democratic gains.

Reflecting on the significance of the June 12, 1993 presidential election and the struggle led by M.K.O. Abiola and other pro-democracy activists, Okpebholo noted that the lessons from that era remain relevant as Nigeria confronts contemporary challenges.

“June 12 reminds us that democracy is not a destination but a continuous journey. The sacrifices of our democratic heroes secured our freedom to choose our leaders, but the responsibility of protecting and strengthening our institutions rests on all of us,” he said.

The governor identified insecurity as one of the greatest threats to national development, citing kidnapping, cult-related violence, armed robbery, and other criminal activities that continue to affect communities across the country.

According to him, no democracy can thrive where citizens live in fear, stressing that security remains the foundation for economic growth, social stability, and national progress.

“Democracy means little to a family that cannot sleep peacefully at night or to a community living under the threat of criminal elements. Security, justice, and the protection of lives and property are essential dividends of democracy,” he stated.

Okpebholo said his administration has intensified efforts to tackle insecurity in Edo State through stronger collaboration with security agencies, community-based intelligence gathering, deployment of security resources, and sustained actions against kidnapping and cultism.

He highlighted key achievements under his administration’s SHINE Agenda, including improvements in healthcare delivery through the Edo Health Insurance Scheme (EdoHIS), rehabilitation of critical infrastructure, investments in education, youth empowerment programmes, and economic development initiatives aimed at improving residents’ quality of life.

Expressing confidence in Nigeria’s ability to overcome its challenges, the governor said the nation’s history demonstrates its resilience and capacity to rise above adversity through unity and collective action.

“Nigeria has overcome difficult periods before, and we will overcome these challenges again. With strong institutions, responsible leadership, active citizen participation, and unwavering faith in our nation, we can build a safer, more prosperous, and more united country,” he said.

The governor also urged political leaders, public office holders, and citizens to uphold accountability, transparency, and respect for the rule of law, warning against divisive politics, misinformation, and actions capable of undermining democratic institutions.

As the nation prepares for future elections, he called for peaceful political engagement and issue-based campaigns, emphasizing that democracy flourishes when citizens participate responsibly and leaders remain accountable to the people.

He congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering good governance, security, and sustainable development across Edo State.