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Nigeria’s Democracy Is Not the Problem, We Are — Alex Otti
Alex Otti says democracy remains the best framework for Nigeria’s progress, urging citizens to embrace accountability, civic engagement and good governance.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has said Nigeria’s democratic system should not be blamed for the country’s developmental challenges, insisting that failures in leadership and decision-making are largely responsible for the nation’s struggles.
Speaking in his Democracy Day address titled “Of Freedom and Development,” Otti described democracy as Nigeria’s best framework for achieving sustainable development and national progress.
“It is not democracy that has failed; we have only been let down by errors in our individual and collective decisions,” the governor stated.
He praised the sacrifices of June 12 heroes and pro-democracy campaigners whose efforts helped secure the freedoms enjoyed by Nigerians today.
Otti called on citizens to embrace their responsibilities within a democratic system by participating actively in elections, demanding accountability and rejecting practices that undermine good governance.
The governor cautioned against electoral apathy, vote buying and political violence, warning that such actions weaken democratic institutions and hinder development.
“The only reward for electoral indifference is misery,” he warned.
According to Otti, citizens who disengage from the political process or trade their votes contribute to poor governance and weaken the foundations of democracy.
He also stressed the need for Nigerians to demand accountability from elected officials while maintaining realistic expectations about the pace of governance and reform.
Highlighting developments in Abia State, Otti said democracy had provided the platform for his administration to pursue reforms in key sectors, including infrastructure, security, education and social welfare.
He expressed optimism that the gains achieved so far would be sustained and vowed that Abia would not return to a period marked by underperformance and mediocrity.
The governor concluded by urging citizens to stay informed, participate in public affairs and work together to protect and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic system.
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