The Rivers State Government South-South Nigeria, has declared that democracy remains the most suitable and effective system of government for Nigeria, emphasising that the nation’s rich ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity can best be managed through democratic principles of inclusion, participation, and consensus-building.
In a goodwill message issued to commemorate the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s history, symbolising the enduring struggle, sacrifices, and aspirations of millions of Nigerians who fought for freedom, justice, and representative governance.
The governor extended warm felicitations to Nigerians both at home and in the Diaspora, paying glowing tribute to the heroes and heroines of the democratic struggle whose courage and commitment laid the foundation for the democratic freedoms currently enjoyed across the country.
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He particularly honored the memory of Chief MKO Abiola, widely regarded as the winner of the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election, as well as his wife, Kudirat Abiola, and numerous other patriots who paid enormous personal sacrifices in the quest for democratic rule.
According to Governor Fubara, the significance of June 12 extends beyond its historical relevance, serving as a constant reminder of the price paid by many Nigerians to secure a government that derives its legitimacy from the will of the people.
“June 12 is a reminder of the sacrifices made by Chief MKO Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, and many other patriots who laid the foundation for the democratic journey we continue to enjoy today. Their commitment to the principle that power must ultimately reside with the people remains a source of inspiration for every generation of Nigerians,” the governor stated.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey over the past three decades, Governor Fubara noted that while the nation’s democratic experiment has faced several challenges and setbacks since the annulment of the June 12 election 33 years ago, the resilience of democratic institutions and the determination of Nigerians have sustained the country’s progress.
He stressed that one of democracy’s greatest achievements is the ability of citizens to freely express differing opinions, engage in constructive dialogue, and peacefully choose their leaders through the ballot box.
The Rivers State governor further argued that democracy provides the most effective framework for harnessing Nigeria’s diversity and transforming it into a source of national strength and development.
“Nigeria’s diversity should never be seen as a weakness. Properly harnessed, it is our greatest asset. Democracy offers us the opportunity to build consensus, promote inclusion, strengthen national unity, and create the conditions for sustainable development and shared prosperity,” he disclosed.
Governor Fubara also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda and ongoing efforts aimed at revitalizing the economy, improving national security, and strengthening democratic institutions across the country.
He reaffirmed the readiness of the Rivers State Government to continue working closely with the Nigerian Government in implementing policies and programmes designed to improve the welfare of citizens through infrastructure development, job creation, quality education, enhanced healthcare services, security enhancement, and good governance.
Calling for greater national unity, the governor urged Nigerians, irrespective of political affiliation, ethnic origin, or religious background, to use the Democracy Day celebration as an opportunity to renew their commitment to the Nigerian project and the values that sustain democratic governance.
The Governor emphasised that democracy should not be viewed merely as an electoral process conducted every few years but as a continuous commitment to accountability, transparency, justice, tolerance, respect for the rule of law, and responsible leadership.
He noted that both leaders and citizens have a shared responsibility to protect democratic institutions and ensure that future generations inherit a nation founded on fairness, opportunity, and sustainable development.
Expressing optimism about Nigeria’s future, the governor called on citizens to remain hopeful, united, and committed to peace, dialogue, and national progress.
He maintained that with collective effort, patriotism, and dedication to democratic ideals, Nigeria can overcome its challenges and build a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous nation where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.
The Democracy Day celebration marks the 33rd anniversary of the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest elections in Nigeria’s history and a defining symbol of the country’s democratic struggle.
