June 12: Democracy Has Given Abia a New Hope, Says Otti

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State said that democracy has helped the people of Abia take control of their future. It has also restored trust in the government and continues to promote development.

Otti shared this in his 2026 Democracy Day message, titled "Of Freedom and Development," which reporters in Umuahia received on Friday.

He described the achievements in Abia under his leadership as proof that democracy and development can go hand in hand. This happens when people choose leaders who are dedicated to serving the public and being accountable.

He added that his government has shown that real development happens best under democracy through smart investments in infrastructure, education, security, and social welfare.

The governor thanked the people of Abia for their support and trust.

"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 said.

Looking back at Nigeria’s democratic journey since returning to civilian rule in 1999, and the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Otti said Democracy Day is a time for Nigerians to reflect on what the country has achieved and the problems it faces.

He pointed out that while many Nigerians feel let down by unmet expectations, it would not be fair to ignore the benefits that democracy has brought.

According to him, democracy hasn’t failed. Instead, both leaders and citizens have sometimes not met 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 said.

The governor honored pro-democracy activists who fought against military rule. He called them patriots whose sacrifices gave Nigerians the freedom they enjoy today.

He said their bravery, strength, and commitment to democratic values should inspire current and future generations to keep fighting for freedom, justice, and national development.

Otti emphasized that democracy is not an end in itself but a way to create 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. He called these threats to democratic progress.

He noted that the heroes of the June 12 struggle came from various ethnic and religious backgrounds but were united in their belief that democracy is the best way to achieve national development.

The governor argued that even though democracy has its flaws, it is still the best option because there is no better alternative.

He expressed happiness that regular elections have become a normal part of the country’s political life after 27 years of steady 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 said.

However, Otti warned that elections would mean nothing if citizens do not protect the integrity of the process.

He urged people to stay alert and actively take part in the democratic process as the 2027 general elections approach.

He also encouraged Nigerians to stay politically aware, resist electoral manipulation, and reject vote-buying, violence, and divisive politics.

The governor said accepting money for votes weakens the right to hold elected officials accountable.

"When citizens sell their votes or become tools of violence and hatred, they become part of the destruction of public trust," he added.

He advised people to be careful of politicians who make unrealistic promises. He noted that real progress needs patience, vigilance, and accountability.

He stated that democracy can only bring development when citizens stay engaged and demand good governance.

Otti reaffirmed his government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive development.

He urged the people of Abia to stay united in working towards a shared vision for a better future.

He called on Nigerians to honor the sacrifices of past democracy activists by protecting democratic institutions and ensuring that freedom and development remain key parts of national life.