Democracy Day: Gov. Ododo Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusion, Justice and Good Governance

By Iyojo Ameh

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to democratic values anchored on inclusion, justice, and accountability, as Nigeria marks Democracy Day.

In a statement on Thursday commemorating June 12, the governor described the day as a pivotal chapter in Nigeria’s democratic journey, underscoring that “democracy is not gifted, it is earned.

“Today, we celebrate as one people, united in history, in hope, and in purpose,” Governor Ododo said, while paying tribute to the heroes of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely acclaimed as the freest and fairest in the country’s history but annulled by the military regime.

He singled out President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as one of the foremost pro-democracy champions whose sacrifices helped secure the freedoms Nigerians enjoy today.

“The sacrifices made by pro-democracy heroes, including our father, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, must never be forgotten,” Ododo stated. “We are not only beneficiaries of the democracy earned through the blood and sweat of our heroes; we are stewards of its promise.”

Governor Ododo reaffirmed that his administration will remain people-focused, with clear goals in infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and security, emphasizing that democracy thrives best through transparency, strong institutions, and citizen empowerment.

“To our youth, you are not the leaders of tomorrow; you are the true guardians of our democracy today. This democracy belongs to you,” he said.

He also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and public servants to embody the spirit of true leadership, noting that the value of democracy is best measured not by positions held or promises made, but by results delivered to the people.

“Let us remember that democracy is strengthened not by titles, but by service…not by rhetoric, but by results,” he added.

The governor warned against forces that seek to divide the nation, urging citizens to remain vigilant in defending democratic values against “disruption, division, and all other tendencies that undermine national interest.”

He pledged his administration’s full support for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and vowed to continue working “day and night” to safeguard the rights and welfare of all Kogi residents.

“Let us rise together in the spirit of nationhood. Let us stand together in the pursuit of progress. Let us walk together on the path of peace, equity, and sustainable development,” Ododo concluded.