Labour Party candidate for the Delta North Senatorial District, Rex Biose, has called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in their faith in democratic governance despite the numerous challenges confronting the nation, including insecurity, economic hardship, and concerns over poor governance.
In a statement issued to mark the June 12 Democracy Day celebration, Biose congratulated the people of Delta North, Deltans, and Nigerians across the country, urging them to reflect on the significance of the day and recommit themselves to the ideals of democracy.
According to him, Democracy Day represents more than a public holiday; it serves as a solemn reminder of the courage, resilience, and sacrifices of activists, statesmen, and ordinary citizens who struggled for the restoration and sustenance of democratic governance in Nigeria.
He paid tribute to the heroes of Nigeria's democratic struggle, both living and deceased, whose dedication to justice, freedom, and the rule of law helped lay the foundation for the country's democratic institutions.
"Their steadfast belief that the will of the people must prevail over oppression remains one of the defining chapters of our national history," he stated.
Biose acknowledged that Nigeria's democratic journey has not been without challenges, noting that many citizens continue to grapple with widespread insecurity, rising poverty, unemployment, and the consequences of poor governance that have weakened public confidence in leadership.
He lamented the persistent wave of kidnappings, banditry, violent crimes, and other security threats across various parts of the country, stressing that the primary responsibility of government remains the protection of lives and property. He particularly condemned the abduction of teachers and pupils from a school in Oyo State, thereby calling on the government to double effort for their rescue.
While calling for stronger democratic institutions, greater accountability, and people-oriented leadership, he urged those in positions of authority to demonstrate greater commitment to transparency, responsiveness, and good governance.
"Democracy must deliver tangible benefits to the people. Citizens deserve a government that is accountable, transparent, and capable of addressing the security and economic challenges affecting their daily lives," he said.
Despite the prevailing difficulties, Biose urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the democratic process, emphasizing that sustainable national development can only be achieved through active citizen participation and responsible leadership.
He stressed that democracy can only thrive when citizens actively participate in governance, demand accountability from public office holders, and uphold the values of tolerance, justice, equity, and national unity.
According to him, the responsibility of building a better Nigeria is a collective one and should not be left solely to elected leaders.
The Labour Party chieftain particularly encouraged young Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to democratic ideals, expressing confidence that the nation can still achieve good governance, security, equity, and prosperity through sustained civic engagement and patriotism.
"As we mark this year's Democracy Day, I urge Nigerians, especially the youth, to remain hopeful and committed to the democratic ideals that unite us as a nation. Though the challenges before us are enormous, our collective resolve as a people is greater. Together, we can build a nation where justice prevails, security is guaranteed, and every citizen has the opportunity to thrive," he said.
Biose further noted that with faith, patriotism, and active participation in the democratic process, Nigeria's democracy would continue to grow stronger and flourish for future generations.
The June 12 Democracy Day celebration is observed annually in honour of Nigeria's democratic journey and the sacrifices of individuals who contributed to the country's return to civilian rule and the preservation of democratic governance.