Democracy restored Abia's pride, says Gov. Otti

Abia State Governor Alex Otti declared that democracy has empowered the state's people to reclaim their destiny and restored confidence in governance. In his Democracy Day message, "Of Freedom and Development," Otti presented the progress in Abia as evidence that democracy and development can coexist when leaders are committed to public service and accountability.

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May I assure [you] that our progress is irreversible; we are never returning to the old order of [mediocre performance], for the light has shone in our path.

He highlighted strategic investments in infrastructure, human capital, security, and social welfare as proof that genuine development thrives under democratic governance. Otti assured the people of Abia that their progress is irreversible and that the state would not return to "mediocre performance." He acknowledged that progress might be slow but is not a mirage.

Reflecting on Nigeria's democratic journey since 1999 and the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, Otti noted that Democracy Day offers a chance for national reflection. While acknowledging unmet expectations, he argued it would be unfair to dismiss the gains of democratic governance. Otti asserted that leaders and citizens, not democracy itself, are to blame for disappointments.

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The blame for the disappointments of the post-1999 years belongs entirely to us, as leaders and citizens, not to democracy or its foundational principles.

The governor paid tribute to pro-democracy activists, calling them patriots whose sacrifices secured current freedoms. He urged Nigerians to reject terrorism, violent extremism, political greed, ethnic divisions, and religious intolerance, identifying them as threats to democratic progress. Otti stressed that democracy is a means to guarantee individual rights, freedom, and justice, and though imperfect, it remains preferable to any alternative.

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Just like I hinted, progress may be slow but need not be a mirage.