The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his belief that democracy remains the most effective system of government for Nigeria, stressing that it provides the strongest framework for managing the country’s diverse ethnic, religious and cultural identities while promoting national unity, progress and prosperity.
In a goodwill message marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, Governor Fubara described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s political history and a symbol of the sacrifices made by patriots who fought for democratic governance and the rights of citizens.
The governor said the annual commemoration goes beyond a historical remembrance, representing the collective struggle, resilience and aspirations of Nigerians for freedom, justice and representative government.
He extended warm greetings to Nigerians both at home and in the Diaspora, while paying tribute to the heroes and heroines of the democratic movement whose efforts helped secure the democratic freedoms enjoyed in the country today.
Among those he specifically honoured were Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and Kudirat Abiola, whom he described as symbols of courage, sacrifice and commitment to democratic ideals.
According to the governor, June 12 serves as a reminder of the enormous price paid by many Nigerians to ensure that the principle of popular sovereignty prevailed.
“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 stated.
Fubara noted that thirty-three years after the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election, Nigeria’s democracy has continued to evolve despite numerous political, economic and social challenges.
He acknowledged that the country’s democratic experience has not been without setbacks but emphasized that the resilience of democratic institutions and the determination of Nigerians have sustained progress over the years.
The governor pointed to citizens’ ability to freely express opinions, participate in public discourse and elect leaders through the ballot box as some of the most significant achievements of the democratic era.
“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 said.
Fubara further argued that democracy offers the best mechanism for harnessing Nigeria’s diversity and transforming it into a source of national strength rather than division.
He maintained that the country’s ethnic, religious and cultural differences should be viewed as valuable assets capable of driving national development when effectively managed through inclusive governance and consensus-building.
“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 stated.
The Rivers State governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for pursuing the Renewed Hope Agenda and implementing policies aimed at revitalising the economy, strengthening security and deepening democratic institutions across the country.
He pledged the continued support and cooperation of the Rivers State Government with the Federal Government in advancing programmes and initiatives designed to improve the welfare of citizens.
According to him, the state remains committed to supporting efforts focused on infrastructure development, employment generation, enhanced security, quality education, improved healthcare services and good governance.
Fubara also used the Democracy Day celebration to call on Nigerians across political, ethnic and religious divides to renew their commitment to nation-building and democratic values.
He stressed that democracy should not be seen merely as an electoral process conducted every few years but as a system rooted in accountability, transparency, justice, tolerance, respect for the rule of law and responsible leadership.
“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 Nigeria’s future, the governor urged citizens to remain united and hopeful while embracing dialogue, peace and collective efforts toward national development.
He said Nigerians must continue working together to build a stronger, more inclusive and prosperous nation where every citizen has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to progress and achieve their full potential.
