Democracy Day: A Call To Responsibility Not Time For Celebration

By Oludare Ogunlana

We cannot mention everyone who contributed to the first phase of Nigeria’s democratic struggle, but we must never allow history to be distorted.

Today, we remember Chief MKO Abiola, who won the June 12, 1993 election by popular mandate before it was annulled by the military junta. We also remember the student activists, civil society leaders, journalists, workers, and ordinary Nigerians who sacrificed for the return of civil rule.

But let us be honest: Nigeria has civil rule, but we are still struggling to achieve true democracy. Elections are still contested. Young people still lack access to opportunity. The justice system remains weak. Terrorism, banditry, insecurity, and poverty continue to deny many Nigerians peace, education, farming, and dignity.

We fought to chase the military away because we believed Nigeria would produce leaders who would uphold the vision of our forefathers and place our nation among countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and India. Instead, too many people of questionable character now occupy positions of power.

Until Nigeria gets its house in order, Nigerians abroad will continue to face disrespect, rejection, and humiliation. The dignity of Black people globally is tied, in part, to the strength, stability, and credibility of Nigeria.

Democracy Day is not only a day of celebration. It is a call to responsibility. We must demand accountability, justice, security, opportunity for young people, and leadership that serves the people.

We are not yet there, but we must not give up. There is still more that unites us than divides us.

Prof. Ogunlana, former NANS president, is a US-based cyber security guru.