Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has said Nigeria’s democratic system is not responsible for the country’s challenges, arguing instead that poor leadership choices and wrong decisions by citizens have slowed the nation’s progress.
In his 2026 Democracy Day message titled “Of Freedom and Development,” Otti maintained that democracy remains the best system for achieving sustainable growth, accountability, and national development.
According to the governor, Nigeria’s struggles since the return to civilian rule in 1999 should not be blamed on democracy itself but on the way leaders and citizens have managed the opportunities it provides.
“It is not democracy that has failed; we have only been let down by errors in our individual and collective decisions,” Otti said.
Tribute To June 12 Heroes
The Abia governor paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle and pro-democracy activists who fought against military rule, noting that the freedoms Nigerians enjoy today came at a great cost.
He said their sacrifices paved the way for democratic governance and should serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting democratic values.
Warning Against Vote Buying And Political Violence
Otti also warned Nigerians against voter apathy, vote selling, and political violence, stressing that democracy can only thrive when citizens actively participate in the electoral process.
According to him, citizens who ignore elections or exchange their votes for short-term benefits contribute to weakening democratic institutions and good governance.
“The only reward for electoral indifference is misery,” he warned.
He urged Nigerians to remain politically aware, stay informed, and demand accountability from elected leaders.
Progress Must Be Measurable
While calling on citizens to hold leaders accountable, Otti noted that development takes time and requires patience, consistency, and commitment.
He stressed that progress may not happen overnight, but governments must be able to show clear and measurable results.
Otti Highlights Abia Reforms
Speaking on his administration’s performance, the governor said democratic governance has enabled his government to pursue reforms in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, security, and social welfare.
He expressed confidence that the reforms being implemented in Abia State would have a lasting impact and help position the state for long-term development.
Otti further declared that Abia would not return to what he described as an era of poor governance and mediocrity.
The governor concluded by urging citizens to remain engaged in governance, insisting that the responsibility of sustaining democracy belongs to both leaders and the people.
Source: Adapted from Governor Alex Otti’s 2026 Democracy Day address titled “Of Freedom and Development.”
