Despite having been edged out of next year’s governorship election, Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed that democracy remains the most effective system of government for Nigeria, describing it as the strongest pathway to national unity, sustainable development, and shared prosperity.
In a goodwill message to Nigerians to mark the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, Governor Fubara said the significance of June 12 extends beyond a historic date, noting that it symbolizes the sacrifices, struggles, and aspirations of Nigerians for freedom, justice, and representative governance.
The governor congratulated Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora on the occasion and paid tribute to the heroes of the democratic struggle, particularly the presumed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola, his wife, Kudirat Abiola, and other patriots who fought for the return to democratic rule.
According to Fubara, the sacrifices made by those democracy advocates remain a source of inspiration for present and future generations.
“June 12 is a reminder of the price paid for the democracy we enjoy today. The sacrifices made by Chief MKO Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, and many other patriots 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,” he said.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic experience 33 years after the historic June 12 election, Fubara acknowledged that the nation’s democratic journey has faced several challenges but noted that the resilience of democratic institutions and citizens has sustained progress.
“Our democratic journey has not been without difficulties, but the resilience of our institutions and the determination of our people have kept the nation moving forward. The ability to express differing opinions, engage in constructive debate, and peacefully choose leaders through the ballot remains one of the greatest achievements of our nation,” he stated.
The governor stressed that democracy offers the best framework for managing Nigeria’s ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity, turning differences into strengths that can drive national 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 said.
Fubara also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for pursuing the Renewed Hope Agenda and efforts aimed at revitalizing the economy, improving security, and strengthening democratic institutions across the country.
He reaffirmed Rivers State’s commitment to working with the Federal Government to implement policies and programmes that improve citizens’ welfare through infrastructure development, job creation, enhanced security, quality education, healthcare delivery, and good governance.
The governor further urged Nigerians, irrespective of political affiliation, ethnicity, or religion, to use the Democracy Day celebration as an opportunity to renew their commitment to nation-building and democratic ideals.
“Democracy must not be viewed merely as a periodic electoral exercise. It must be reflected in our daily commitment to accountability, transparency, tolerance, justice, respect for the rule of law, and responsible leadership. As citizens and leaders, we all share a collective responsibility to strengthen our democracy and build a nation that future generations will be proud to inherit,” he said.
Expressing optimism about the country’s future, Fubara called on Nigerians to remain united, hopeful, and committed to peace, dialogue, and national development.
“Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive, and more prosperous Nigeria where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national progress,” he added.
