Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed the importance of democracy as the most dependable path to national unity, development and prosperity, urging Nigerians to remain steadfast in upholding the values that have sustained the country’s democratic journey over the past three decades.
In a message commemorating the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, Fubara described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s history and a lasting symbol of the sacrifices made by citizens in the struggle for freedom, justice and representative governance.
The governor paid tribute to the late Chief MKO Abiola, widely recognised as the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, as well as his wife, Kudirat Abiola, and other pro-democracy activists whose sacrifices helped secure the democratic freedoms enjoyed by Nigerians today.
According to Fubara, the significance of June 12 goes beyond its historical context, serving as a reminder that democracy was won through courage, resilience and the determination of citizens who insisted that political power must ultimately reside with the people.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey over the past 33 years, the governor acknowledged the challenges the nation has faced but noted that the resilience of its institutions and the commitment of its people have enabled democracy to endure.
He described the freedom to express diverse opinions, participate in public discourse and elect leaders through peaceful electoral processes as some of the country’s most significant democratic achievements.
Fubara also highlighted the role of democracy in managing Nigeria’s ethnic, religious and cultural diversity, stressing that the nation’s differences should be embraced as a source of strength rather than division.
He maintained that democratic governance promotes inclusion, consensus-building and national cohesion while creating opportunities for sustainable development and shared prosperity.
The governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for implementing policies under the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly initiatives aimed at economic recovery, enhanced security and the strengthening of democratic institutions.
He reiterated the commitment of the Rivers State Government to work closely with the Federal Government in advancing programmes focused on infrastructure development, job creation, healthcare delivery, education, security and good governance.
Fubara called on Nigerians to use Democracy Day as an occasion for reflection and renewed commitment to the nation’s progress, urging citizens across political, ethnic and religious lines to embrace the ideals that foster unity and development.
He emphasized that democracy should not be viewed merely as a system for conducting elections but as a way of life rooted in accountability, transparency, tolerance, justice, respect for the rule of law and responsible leadership.
Expressing optimism about Nigeria’s future, the governor urged citizens to remain hopeful and united, noting that collective commitment to peace, dialogue and national development would help build a stronger and more prosperous nation where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.
