Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has declared that democracy has empowered the people of Abia to reclaim their destiny, restored public confidence in governance, and continues to drive sustainable development. Mr Otti made this statement in his 2026 Democracy Day message, titled “Of Freedom and Development,” which was made available to journalists in Umuahia on Friday.
Progress Under Democratic Governance
He described the progress recorded in Abia under his administration as proof that democracy and development can coexist when citizens elect leaders committed to public service and accountability. He added that through strategic investments in infrastructure, human capital development, security, and social welfare, his administration has demonstrated that genuine development thrives best under democratic governance.
Gratitude and Assurance
The governor thanked the people of Abia for their trust and support. “May I assure [you] that our progress is irreversible; we are never returning to the old order of [mediocre performance], for the light has shone in our path. Just like I hinted, progress may be slow but need not be a mirage,” he stated.
Reflection on Nigeria's Democratic Journey
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey since the return to civilian rule in 1999 and the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Mr Otti said Democracy Day offers an opportunity for national reflection on the country’s achievements and challenges. He noted that while many Nigerians remain disappointed by unmet expectations, it would be unfair to dismiss the gains recorded under democratic governance. According to him, democracy has not failed; rather, leaders and citizens alike have sometimes fallen short in their responsibilities. “The blame for the disappointments of the post-1999 years belongs entirely to us, as leaders and citizens, not to democracy or its foundational principles,” he stated.
Tribute to Pro-Democracy Activists
The governor paid tribute to pro-democracy activists who fought against military dictatorship, describing them as patriots whose sacrifices secured the freedom Nigerians enjoy today. He noted that their courage, resilience, and commitment to democratic ideals should inspire present and future generations to continue the struggle for liberty, justice, and national development.
Call to Reject Terrorism and Divisiveness
Mr Otti stressed that democracy is not an end in itself but a means of building a society where individual rights, freedom, and justice are guaranteed. He urged Nigerians to reject terrorism, violent extremism, political greed, ethnic divisions, and religious intolerance, describing them as threats to democratic progress. He maintained that the heroes of the June 12 struggle came from different ethnic and religious backgrounds but were united by a common belief in democracy as the best path to national development.
Importance of Elections and Citizen Vigilance
The governor contended that although democracy is imperfect, it remains preferable because no superior alternative exists. He expressed satisfaction that regular elections have become an established feature of the country’s political system after 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule. “Every four years, citizens have the opportunity to choose their leaders. That alone tells an important story of how far we have come as a nation,” he stated. However, Mr Otti warned that elections would be meaningless if citizens fail to safeguard the integrity of the process. He urged the citizenry to remain vigilant and actively participate in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Charge Against Vote-Buying and Divisive Politics
He further charged Nigerians to remain politically conscious, resist electoral manipulation, and reject vote-buying, violence, and divisive politics. The governor stated that accepting money in exchange for votes undermines the right to demand accountability from elected officials. “When citizens sell their votes or become instruments of violence and hatred, they become conspirators in the desecration of public trust,” he added. He advised people to be wary of politicians who make unrealistic promises, noting that meaningful progress requires patience, vigilance, and accountability.
Commitment to Transparency and Inclusive Development
Mr Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the principles of transparency, accountability, and inclusive development. He urged the people of Abia to remain united in pursuing a shared vision for a prosperous future. He called on Nigerians to honor the sacrifices of past democracy activists by protecting democratic institutions and “ensuring that freedom and development remained enduring features of our national life.”
