BENIN CITY, Nigeria — Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo marked Democracy Day with a stark warning that democracy means little to families who cannot sleep peacefully at night or communities living under constant threat from criminal elements.
In a statement Friday, Okpebholo said security, justice, and the protection of lives and property are essential dividends of democracy. He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, united, and committed to strengthening democratic institutions as the country confronts insecurity, economic challenges, and threats to public trust.
Reflecting on the June 12, 1993 presidential election and the struggle led by M.K.O. Abiola and other pro‑democracy activists, Okpebholo said the lessons of that era remain relevant today. “June 12 reminds us that democracy is not a destination but a continuous journey,” he said. “No democracy can thrive where citizens live in fear. Security remains the foundation upon which economic growth, social stability, and national progress are built.”
The governor cited kidnapping, cult‑related violence, and armed robbery as major threats to national development. He expressed confidence that Nigeria possesses the resilience to overcome its current challenges, urging leaders and citizens alike to uphold accountability, transparency, and respect for the rule of law. He warned against divisive politics and misinformation, calling instead for peaceful political engagement and issue‑based campaigns.
Okpebholo highlighted his administration’s intensified efforts to combat insecurity in Edo State through collaboration with security agencies, community‑based intelligence gathering, and sustained action against kidnapping and cultism. He pointed to initiatives under the SHINE Agenda, including improvements in healthcare delivery through the Edo Health Insurance Scheme, rehabilitation of infrastructure, investments in education, youth empowerment programs, and economic development projects.
Reactions to his Democracy Day message quickly spread. On social media, many Nigerians echoed his concerns, with one user writing, “Democracy is meaningless if people live in fear of kidnappers.” Another praised his candor, saying, “It’s refreshing to hear a governor admit that security is the real dividend of democracy.”
Policy makers in Abuja welcomed the remarks, noting that insecurity remains the biggest obstacle to Nigeria’s democratic consolidation. “Governor Okpebholo is right, without safety, democracy cannot deliver,” one legislator said. Civil society groups also weighed in, urging the federal government to match state‑level initiatives with stronger national reforms.
Analysts described the statement as a reminder that democracy must be felt in everyday life. “Okpebholo’s words resonate because Nigerians want democracy not just in theory, but in practice, in their homes, their communities, and their pockets,” political commentator Chika Okoye observed.
The governor congratulated Nigerians on Democracy Day and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering good governance, security, and sustainable development across Edo State.
