The Young Progressives Party (YPP) gubernatorial candidate in Anambra State, Sir Paul Chukwuma, has urged Nigerians to deepen their democratic engagement, especially at the state and local government levels, as the country commemorates its 26th year of uninterrupted democratic governance.
In a statement commemorating Democracy Day, Chukwuma reflected on the nation’s political evolution since the return to civilian rule on May 29, 1999. He described that historic moment as one that was “met with a mixture of uncertainty and silence,” shaped by the nation’s experience with prolonged military rule.
“History had taught Nigerians to be cautious, and many feared democracy would again be short-lived,” Chukwuma said. “But here we are, 26 years later, having sustained democratic governance through successive transitions. We are now firmly in our third decade of democratic experience.”
While acknowledging widespread public disenchantment with democratic outcomes, the YPP flag bearer maintained that democracy, despite its flaws, has delivered measurable progress compared to authoritarian rule.
“Our economy has grown beyond its pre-1999 levels, and infrastructure development now extends far beyond the Federal Capital Territory. More importantly, fundamental rights—freedom of speech, the right to vote and be voted for, and freedom of association—have been considerably strengthened,” he noted.
Still, Chukwuma warned against complacency, emphasising that democracy is “not a finished product” but a “historical journey shaped through struggle, sacrifice, and civic engagement.”
He paid tribute to those who resisted military rule and fought for democratic ideals, particularly during the June 12, 1993 presidential election crisis. Among the key figures he named were President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the late Professor Humphrey Nwosu, and human rights advocate Olisa Agbakoba, SAN.
“It is only fitting that June 12 is now recognised as our official Democracy Day—a lasting tribute to the spirit of resistance and resilience that birthed the Fourth Republic,” he added.
Drawing from The Narrow Corridor by Nobel laureates Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson, Chukwuma highlighted the importance of power balance between state and society.
He argued that while federal institutions have become more accountable due to sustained civic engagement, state and local government structures often escape similar scrutiny.
“Our federal institutions—INEC, the national budget, and the arms of government—are increasingly held accountable. This is not the case at state and local levels, where transparency and oversight are largely lacking,” he observed.
He called on civil society organisations, media, and citizens to intensify focus on subnational governance, where the real impact of democracy is felt by the majority of Nigerians.
“The quality of governance closest to the people has the greatest impact on their daily lives. Strengthening transparency, accountability, and institutional independence at the state and local levels is not just necessary—it is essential,” he concluded.
“Happy Democracy Day, Nigeria.”