Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has called on Nigerians to rekindle the democratic spirit of unity, civic responsibility, and active participation in national development as the country commemorates the 2025 Democracy Day.
The governor made the call in his Democracy Day message delivered in Lokoja on Thursday.
Describing 12 June as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, Ododo said the day serves as a solemn reminder that democracy is not a gift but a hard-won achievement.
“The sacrifices of pro-democracy heroes, including our leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, must never be forgotten,” he stated.
“These are the pioneering figures whose unwavering struggles laid the foundation for the democratic freedoms we, as Nigerians, now enjoy.”
Governor Ododo paid glowing tribute to the heroes of the 1993 presidential election widely acknowledged as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, yet regrettably annulled.
He emphasised that Nigerians are not merely beneficiaries of the democracy won through immense sacrifice, but also custodians of its promises.
“Democracy thrives only when it is inclusive, participatory, and accountable,” the governor said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to building resilient institutions, promoting transparency, and empowering citizens particularly the youth to play active roles in governance.
“To our youth: you are not merely the leaders of tomorrow; you are the true custodians of our democracy today. This democracy belongs to you,” he declared.
Ododo reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the democratic ideals of inclusion, justice, and accountability.
He pledged to continue delivering a people-centred government with tangible outcomes in infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and security.
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The governor also urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society actors, and public servants to lead by example, noting that democracy is measured not by status or rhetoric but by visible results that improve citizens’ lives.
“Let us remember: democracy is strengthened not by titles, but by service not by rhetoric, but by results,” he said.
He called on all Nigerians to remain vigilant against forces that threaten national unity, and to resolutely defend democratic values against disruption, division, and other forces that undermine the national interest.
Governor Ododo further pledged continued alignment with the Federal Government’s development policies and programmes under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“As governor, I remain committed day and night to protecting the rights and freedoms of all Kogi residents, ensuring they can live and work in peace, safety, and dignity,” he assured.
“Let us rise in unity as a nation. Let us stand firm in the pursuit of progress. Let us walk together along the path of peace, fairness, and sustainable development,” he concluded.
