Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed that democratic governance remains the most viable route to Nigeria’s growth and national progress, arguing that the country’s difficulties since the return to civilian rule in 1999 stem largely from poor leadership decisions rather than any inherent flaw in democracy itself.
Speaking during his 2026 Democracy Day address titled “Of Freedom and Development,” the governor maintained that democracy has provided Nigerians with opportunities for participation, freedom, and accountability, but noted that the nation has not always made the best choices in leadership and governance.
According to Otti, citizens and leaders alike must accept responsibility for strengthening democratic principles and ensuring that institutions function effectively for the benefit of the people.
“It is not democracy that has failed; we have only been let down by errors in our individual and collective decisions,” he stated.
The governor paid glowing tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle and other pro-democracy advocates whose sacrifices contributed to the restoration and preservation of democratic rule in Nigeria. He said the freedoms currently enjoyed by Nigerians were secured through years of resistance, courage, and determination by citizens who stood against authoritarian rule.
Otti emphasized that the gains of democracy should never be taken for granted, noting that citizens have a duty to protect and deepen democratic values through active participation in governance and public affairs.
He also expressed concern over growing voter apathy and warned that democracy can only thrive when citizens remain engaged in the electoral process. The governor urged Nigerians to reject practices such as vote buying, electoral violence, and divisive politics, which he said undermine democratic institutions and weaken public trust.
“The only reward for electoral indifference is misery,” Otti warned, stressing that citizens who choose not to participate in elections or who exchange their votes for temporary benefits ultimately contribute to poor governance and underdevelopment.
The governor further encouraged Nigerians to hold elected officials accountable for their actions while maintaining realistic expectations about the pace of development. According to him, meaningful progress often takes time, but governments must consistently demonstrate measurable results and remain committed to serving the public interest.
Reflecting on developments in Abia State, Otti said democratic governance has enabled residents to reclaim their aspirations for growth and development through strategic investments in key sectors. He highlighted ongoing efforts in infrastructure renewal, security enhancement, educational improvement, and social welfare programmes aimed at improving the quality of life for citizens.
He noted that his administration remains focused on implementing reforms that will deliver lasting benefits to the people and position the state for sustainable development.
The governor expressed confidence that the reforms currently being pursued in Abia would outlive his administration and continue to drive progress across the state. He declared that Abia would not return to what he described as a period of poor performance and underachievement.
Otti concluded by calling on citizens to remain informed, participate actively in governance, and contribute to the strengthening of democratic institutions. He stressed that the responsibility for sustaining democracy does not rest solely on elected officials but on all Nigerians who desire a more prosperous and accountable society.
