From: Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
As Nigeria commemorates this year’s Democracy Day, the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ) has called for urgent measures to bolster the country’s democratic culture through inclusive governance, stronger institutions, and a renewed emphasis on economic justice and public accountability.
In a statement issued to mark the occasion, Rev. David Ugolor, Executive Director of ANEEJ, emphasized that Nigeria’s democracy must go beyond periodic elections and political symbolism. “It must address the everyday challenges faced by citizens, particularly the rising economic hardship affecting millions of Nigerians.
“This year’s Democracy Day is a moment for reflection. A true democracy must meet the basic needs of its people. It must feed the hungry, create job opportunities for the unemployed, and listen to the voices of the marginalized. At a time when inflation, poverty, and food insecurity are at record highs, Nigerians deserve more than just promises; they deserve effective policies,” Ugolor stated.
He pointed out that the credibility of Nigeria’s democratic process is increasingly being tested by the disconnect between governance and the realities faced by the population. “A democracy that fails to deliver is vulnerable to erosion,” he warned. “To rebuild trust, we must prioritize people over politics and strengthen the institutions that protect rights, ensure justice, and deliver public goods.”
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
