Democracy: Stakeholders urge stronger institutions ,active citizen participation
Stakeholders in Edo have called for stronger democratic institutions, greater accountability in governance and increased citizen participation as Nigeria marked its 2026 Democracy Day.
Speaking with the Newsmen in Benin, a political analyst, Dr Nosa Ehigie, said democracy should go beyond periodic elections and be reflected in policies would improve welfare of citizens.
He urged political parties to strengthen internal democracy through transparent candidate selection processes and called on elected officials to remain responsive to the needs of their constituents.
Ehigie said June 12 remained significant in Nigeria’s democratic history because it symbolised the importance of allowing people’s votes to count.
According to him, government at all levels should continue efforts to address poverty, inflation and infrastructure challenges, while creating conditions that deepen public confidence in democratic institutions.
He also urged Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in elections, noting that meaningful democratic change required involvement of citizen.
Also speaking, another political affairs analyst, Mr Uyi Omokpae, stressed that governance should remain responsive to citizens’ aspirations and needs.
He said the ideals associated with June 12 should be reflected in everyday political practices, particularly at the grassroots level.
He said that citizens, especially young people and the elite, should play more active roles in the electoral process rather than limiting their participation to public commentary.
Omokpae urged Nigerians to become more aware of their civic rights and responsibilities, saying democracy thrived when citizens are actively engaged in governance and hold leaders accountable.
The stakeholders agreed that while June 12 remained a landmark in Nigeria’s democratic journey, government institutions, political actors and citizens must work together to ensure that democratic values translated into good governance, improved living standards and national development.