Delta Residents Speak Out on Wealth Gap and Democracy Day

Some Delta State residents on Friday expressed their concerns about the big gap between the rich and the poor in Nigeria. They said this gap goes against promises made by leaders since 1999.

The residents shared their thoughts in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria in Asaba. This was during the celebration of 27 years of uninterrupted democracy and the June 12 Democracy Day.

Emeke Johnson, a public affairs analyst, called for stronger democratic institutions, a fully independent judiciary, the separation of powers, and electoral reforms. He also urged President Bola Tinubu to quickly address the serious issues facing the country, especially insecurity and the economy.

“Things are very difficult; people are barely surviving. The economic situation is troubling. The high cost of food and drugs is enormous. The government needs to improve its economic indicators. Insecurity is on the rise, and mass abduction is daily. What then is the function of the government?” Mr Johnson asked.

A commercial motorcyclist, Kevwe Ogbo, also shared his views. He said democracy has not benefited the common people. “There is insecurity everywhere, and prices of goods are astronomical. Power supply is terrible. The fuel price is N1,400 a litre. The money I make daily can no longer feed my family. What is there to celebrate?” he said.

‘We Need Credible Elections’

Roseline Ugbaja, a teacher, praised the Delta State Government for its commitment to fixing roads. She also noted the development in infrastructure across the country, especially in Delta, over the past 27 years of democracy.

“The road leading to my house used to be in a terrible state, but the state government recently repaired it. It has eased our sufferings and reduced the cost of transportation. However, the cost of living is still high. I can barely afford my medications. Government needs to come to our aid,” she said.

She urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure that the 2027 elections are free, fair, and credible. This will help the people choose their leaders.

“A credible election is the hallmark of democracy. INEC needs to ensure that our votes count. It should restore Nigerians’ confidence in our electoral process. That is the only way to ensure that democracy will continue to thrive,” Ms Ugbaja said.

In his response, Monday Nkeonye, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for keeping his promises to the people. He said the M.O.R.E Agenda of the Delta State Government has brought development to the grassroots.

Mr Nkeonye commended Nigeria's democratic journey and asked citizens to be patient with the government. “I know things are a bit difficult, but it will get better. The economic hardship will soon be over. Government’s economic policies, though difficult at the beginning, will soon begin to yield results,” he said.

Isaac Mordi, a security officer, also commented on the anniversary of Democracy Day. He said, “27 years of democracy is a milestone, but we need to do better. People have no confidence in our institutions. We need reforms in almost every sector, especially electoral, security and judicial reforms. They are the tripod on which our democracy stands, but the foundation is shaky.

“The government needs to work for every Nigerian and not just the ruling class. Let Nigerians feel the impact of democracy. Poverty is increasing.” He criticized the rising insecurity and urged the president and other elected officials to fulfill their duties.

Charity Anih, a youth leader, said despite the challenges, democracy has come to stay. She called on political parties to practice internal democracy and choose capable candidates in every election.

“At least every four years, we go to the polls to elect our leaders. I believe that the country will improve. Let competent people join political parties and contest for positions. We need to stop complaining and participate in the process.

“We need people who can tackle the rising unemployment and insecurity, and improve the living conditions of Nigerians. We need to do away with the crop of politicians whose legacies are corruption and bad governance,” Mr Anih said.