President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has called on Nigerians to remain united, resilient and actively involved in the country’s democratic process as Nigeria marks 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule.
Akpabio said democracy can only thrive when citizens participate in governance, hold leaders accountable and work together to protect the nation’s democratic institutions.
The Senate President made the call in his Democracy Day message to Nigerians, where he commended citizens for their patience, sacrifices and continued support for democratic governance despite the challenges confronting the country.
The message, signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Sunday Eyiboh, noted that Nigeria’s democratic journey has survived many tests and remains a symbol of the people’s determination to choose their leaders through constitutional means.
According to Akpabio, the country’s democratic experience over the past 27 years is proof of the resilience and endurance of Nigerians, who have remained committed to civilian rule despite periods of political tension, economic hardship and security concerns.
“On behalf of the 10th National Assembly, I congratulate every Nigerian for the sustenance of democracy for close to three decades. Mistakes have been made in the course of this journey, but we will surely get to the desired destination with your support,” he said.
He urged Nigerians not to lose faith in democracy or allow individuals seeking to undermine the country’s progress to derail the democratic process.
The Senate President stressed that democracy should not be reduced to voting during elections alone. Instead, he said it should be built on the principles of accountability, justice, compassion and service to the people.
According to him, citizens must demand transparency from those in positions of authority while also carrying out their civic responsibilities for the good of the nation.
“Democracy should extend beyond the conduct of elections and be anchored on accountability, justice, compassion and service to the common good,” he stated.
Akpabio also directed a special appeal to young Nigerians, urging them to become active participants in politics and governance rather than remaining on the sidelines.
He described the youth as the future leaders of the country and said their involvement in the democratic process was essential for the continued growth and stability of Nigeria.
“As we commemorate June 12, I wish to encourage the youth not to sit on the fence but be active participants in the nation’s political activities. The youths constitute the fulcrum of those who will succeed us tomorrow,” he said.
He called on young people to embrace leadership opportunities, engage in public discussions and contribute positively to shaping the future of the country.
“Let us therefore rededicate ourselves to the ideals of freedom, transparency and accountable government, social justice, and active citizen participation, especially the youths,” Akpabio added.
The Senate President also addressed the issue of insecurity, which has remained one of the biggest concerns facing the country.
Nigeria has continued to grapple with terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes and other forms of violent crimes in different parts of the country. The situation has led to the loss of lives, displacement of communities and disruption of economic activities.
Akpabio appealed to Nigerians to support one another and cooperate with security agencies and the government in efforts to tackle the security challenges.
He assured citizens that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to restoring peace across the country and securing the release of Nigerians still being held captive by criminal groups.
“I urge every Nigerian to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in her efforts in fighting terrorism,” he said.
“We understand the pains you are going through, but the government is not resting on its oars and hopefully we shall overcome this current challenge and all will be well with Nigeria.”
Democracy Day, celebrated annually on June 12, honours the sacrifices made by Nigerians in the struggle for democratic rule. The date is linked to the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history and believed to have been won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.
After years of military rule, Nigeria returned to democratic governance on May 29, 1999, and has since witnessed successive elections and peaceful transfers of power. The country’s uninterrupted democratic journey has become the longest period of civilian rule since independence.
While acknowledging that the nation still faces significant challenges, Akpabio expressed optimism that Nigeria would emerge stronger if citizens remained committed to the values of democracy, national unity and collective responsibility.
He said the task of building a prosperous and peaceful Nigeria should not be left to government alone, but requires the active involvement of every citizen.