As Nigerians mark this year’s Democracy Day, the Labour Party has issued a strong message of reflection and accountability, warning that democratic governance must be measured by real improvements in the lives of citizens, not ceremonies and rhetoric.
In a statement released on Friday by its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Eluma Asogwa, the party felicitated Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, while urging leaders to confront the deepening crisis of insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, hunger, and decaying public infrastructure.
The party said June 12 remains a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by pro-democracy heroes, led by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, whose historic 1993 mandate symbolised the will of the Nigerian people and the promise of a better nation.
It stressed that honouring that legacy goes beyond annual speeches, insisting that Nigeria must urgently bridge the widening gap between democratic ideals and the lived reality of its citizens.
“Democracy without delivery becomes frustration,” the party implied, noting that millions of Nigerians are struggling under rising living costs, job scarcity, and worsening insecurity despite years of civilian rule.
While acknowledging that democracy remains the best system of governance, the Labour Party warned that it risks losing credibility if it fails to guarantee fairness, inclusion, accountability, and measurable development outcomes.
The party called on those in government to ensure that the “dividends of democracy” are not reduced to slogans, but are reflected in food security, functional healthcare, quality education, stable electricity, and meaningful employment opportunities.
It reaffirmed its ideological commitment to Equal Opportunity and Social Justice, arguing that no democracy can survive long-term exclusion, inequality, and lack of access to basic economic opportunities.
According to the statement, Nigeria’s democratic journey remains incomplete as long as citizens feel disconnected from governance and institutions fail to respond to everyday challenges.
As the country looks ahead to another electoral cycle, the party urged Nigerians not to lose hope, insisting that national renewal is still possible through credible leadership and people-driven governance.
The Party also reiterated its readiness to present candidates with “character, competence and capacity,” capable of restoring trust in public office and rebuilding national confidence.
It maintained that Nigeria’s future depends on leadership that prioritises citizens over politics, and delivery over promises.
The statement concluded with a message of hope, urging Nigerians to remain engaged in the democratic process and committed to building a more just, secure and prosperous nation.
The Guardian
