Democracy Day: Gov. Okpebholo urges vigilance, unity in building a secure Nigeria
Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo has urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, united, and committed to strengthening democratic institutions as the country confronts insecurity, economic challenges and threats to public trust.
Okpebholo made the call in his Democracy Day message on Friday in Benin.
According to him, June 12 should serve, not only as a remembrance of the sacrifices made by heroes of democracy but also as a call to action for citizens and leaders to safeguard the nation’s democratic gains.
Reflecting on the significance of the June 12, 1993 presidential election and the struggle led by Chief M.K.O. Abiola and other pro-democracy activists, Okpebholo said the lessons of that era remained relevant as Nigeria navigates 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.
“Insecurity, kidnapping, cult-related violence, armed robbery, and other criminal activities that have disrupted lives and livelihoods across parts of the country remain one of the greatest threats to national development.”
According to him, no democracy can thrive where citizens live in fear, stressing that security remains the foundation upon which economic growth, social stability, and national progress are built.
He explained that democracy meant little to a family that could not 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 added.
Okpebholo said his administration has intensified efforts to combat insecurity in Edo through enhanced collaboration with security agencies, community-based intelligence gathering, deployment of security resources, and sustained action against kidnapping and cultism.
He highlighted ongoing initiatives under the Edo SHINE Agenda, including improvements in healthcare delivery through the Edo Health Insurance Scheme (EdoHIS), rehabilitation of critical infrastructure as projects to ensure the people got dividends of democracy.
The governor listed other ongoing initiatives under the SHINE Agenda, to be investments in education, youth empowerment programmes and economic development projects aimed at improving the quality of life for residents.
He expressed confidence that Nigeria possessed the strength and resilience to overcome its current security and economic challenges.
“As the nation prepares for future electoral contests, Nigerians must embrace peaceful political engagements and issue-based campaigns.
“Democracy flourishes when citizens participate responsibly and leaders remain accountable to the people, democracy survives through participation, integrity, and respect for institutions.
“Let us remain committed to building a Nigeria, where justice prevails, opportunities abound, and every citizen can live in peace, dignity, and hope,” the governor said.
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.