Democracy Is Not Nigeria’s Problem, Leadership and Citizens Must Share Responsibility – Otti
Democracy Is Not Nigeria’s Problem, Leadership and Ci
tizens Must Share Responsibility – Otti
Umuahia, Nigeria – Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has argued that Nigeria’s democratic system is not responsible for the nation’s challenges, insisting that both leaders and citizens must accept responsibility for the country’s shortcomings.
Speaking in his Democracy Day address titled “Of Freedom and Development,” Otti said democracy remains the most viable framework for national growth, accountability, and freedom. According to him, the setbacks experienced since Nigeria’s return to civilian rule should be blamed on human decisions rather than the democratic system itself.
The governor noted that many Nigerians have become frustrated with the pace of development and governance outcomes, but warned against concluding that democracy has failed. He stressed that the nation’s difficulties are the result of poor choices made over the years by both elected officials and the electorate.
Otti described Democracy Day as an important moment for reflection on Nigeria’s political journey, particularly the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists who fought for the restoration of civil rule following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. He praised those who paid the ultimate price in the struggle for democratic governance, saying their contributions should inspire citizens to remain committed to nation-building.
The Abia governor emphasized that democracy should not be viewed merely as a process of conducting elections but as a system designed to guarantee freedom, justice, accountability, and sustainable development. He urged Nigerians to reject violence, political extremism, vote-buying, and other practices that undermine democratic values.
Otti also expressed concern over declining voter participation in elections, warning that electoral apathy weakens democratic institutions and allows poor governance to thrive. He called on citizens to become more active in the political process and to hold leaders accountable at all levels.
“The future of democracy depends on the choices we make as citizens,” he said, stressing that credible elections and effective governance require informed and engaged voters.
Highlighting developments in Abia State, Otti said his administration has leveraged democratic governance to drive reforms in infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, and public service delivery. He maintained that the progress recorded in the state demonstrates that democracy can deliver tangible benefits when leaders are transparent, accountable, and focused on public service.
According to him, democracy has helped restore public confidence in governance and positioned Abia on a path of sustainable development. He assured residents that the ongoing reforms in the state are irreversible and pledged to sustain investments that improve the quality of life for citizens.
As Nigeria continues to deepen its democratic journey, Otti urged both leaders and citizens to embrace responsibility, insisting that national progress will depend on collective commitment to good governance, accountability, and active civic participation.
