DEMOCRACY DAY: Otti Rallies Nigerians On Freedom, Development, Rejects Political Greed And Electoral Indifference

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has called on Nigerians to renew their faith in democracy, reject political greed, electoral manipulation and violence.
He urged all to embrace active citizenship as the surest path to national development and sustainable freedom.

In his 2026 Democracy Day address titled, “Of Freedom and Development,” Governor Otti reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey, describing June 12 as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by pro-democracy heroes who fought against military dictatorship and paid dearly to restore democratic governance in the country.

The Governor noted that despite disappointments recorded since the return to civil rule in 1999, democracy remains the most credible platform for nation-building, insisting that Nigeria’s democratic shortcomings stem not from the failure of democracy itself, but from poor leadership choices and collective decisions by citizens.

He acknowledged the growing frustration among many Nigerians over widening economic hardship and unfulfilled expectations,but urged citizens not to surrender to hopelessness.

“A lot may have gone wrong, but there is still so much to fight for , for ourselves and generations yet unborn,” Otti declared. Stressing that national progress requires resilience, patriotism and a collective commitment to democratic ideals.

Paying glowing tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, particularly those who resisted military oppression between 1993 and 1999, the Governor said many patriots sacrificed their comfort, liberty and even their lives to secure the freedoms Nigerians enjoy today.

According to him, the struggle for liberty and development remains unfinished, charging Nigerians to honour the memories of fallen democratic heroes by defending justice, accountability and national unity.

Governor Otti strongly condemned terrorism, violent extremism and political intolerance, warning that insecurity and economic greed pose grave threats to democracy and national stability.

He maintained that Nigeria must confront criminality and terrorism decisively while simultaneously addressing enabling factors such as economic injustice, sectarianism and political exploitation.

The Abia Governor also used the occasion to caution citizens against electoral complacency ahead of future elections, emphasizing that democracy thrives only when citizens remain vigilant and actively involved in governance.

He warned Nigerians against selling their votes, accepting political inducements or becoming tools of violence and ethnic division, describing such actions as a betrayal of public trust.
“When citizens accept bribes for votes or offer themselves as agents of violence and division, they become conspirators in the desecration of democracy,” he stated.

Speaking on governance in Abia State, Governor Otti said democracy has empowered the people to reclaim their destiny after years of setbacks, pointing to investments in infrastructure, security, human capital development and social welfare as evidence of transformational leadership under his administration.

He declared that Abia’s restoration was driven not by authoritarian leadership but by the democratic will of the people who elected leaders committed to service and accountability.
“The pride of our land is being restored. Our progress is irreversible, and we shall never return to the old order of mediocrity,” the Governor affirmed.
Otti further urged Abians to remain politically conscious and informed as preparations begin for another electoral cycle, stressing that democracy demands knowledge, vigilance and responsible decision-making.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the trust reposed in it by the people, assuring residents that the state would continue on the path of sustainable growth and development.
The Governor concluded by calling on Nigerians to remain united in pursuit of shared dreams of justice, liberty and prosperity, urging citizens to make choices that reflect their collective aspirations for a better future.