By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Katsina
Katsina state Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has reassured the people of his commitment to serve with transparency and accountability for the delivery of the dividends of democracy.
The Governor disclosed this while felicitating with the people of Katsina and Nigerians on the occasion of the 2025 Democracy Day celebration.
The Governor reflected on the sacrifices of democracy heroes, particularly Chief MKO Abiola, whose June 12, 1993 mandate symbolised the people’s power to choose their leaders and shape their destiny.
“When I wake up each morning as your Governor, I remember that this office is not mine—it belongs to every Katsina citizen who trusted me with their vote. Your struggles are my struggles, your hopes fuel my determination,” he said.
Governor Radda acknowledged the daily challenges facing the ordinary citizens, citing economic pressures to security concerns.
He assured the people that his administration feels their pain and works tirelessly to provide relief.
The Governor highlighted his administration’s people-centered initiatives, including agricultural support programs, youth empowerment schemes, healthcare improvements, and infrastructure development projects touching every corner of the state.
“Democracy means nothing if it doesn’t change lives. That’s why we’re building roads to connect your communities, supporting farmers to feed our families, creating jobs for our youth, and ensuring quality healthcare reaches every village,” Governor Radda said.
Governor Radda called on all Nigerians to protect and nurture democracy by actively participating in governance, holding leaders accountable, and maintaining unity despite differences.
The Governor pledged that Katsina State will continue serving as a paradigm of democratic governance, citizen engagement, and inclusive development.
June 12: Okpebholo urges Nigerians to recommit to democratic ideals
The Executive Governor of Edo, Monday Okpebholo, has called on all residents and Nigerians in general, to reflect on the enduring lessons of June 12 and renew their commitment to the principles of democracy, justice, and unity.
The Governor who stated this in a statement on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, emphasized that June 12 serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by patriotic Nigerians who championed the cause of true democracy.
He, therefore, urged citizens to safeguard the hard-won freedoms and democratic gains.
“As we commemorate June 12, our Democracy Day, we are reminded of the strong resolve of Nigerians who, on that fateful day in 1993, spoke with one voice in favour of popular will.
“It is a day to honour the memory of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and all those who played significant roles in the struggle for the democracy we now cherish,” he stated.
Highlighting his administration’s dedication to people-centered governance, Okpebholo noted that the ‘SHINE’ agenda is geared towards delivering tangible improvements in the lives of Edo people across all sectors, including security, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and education.
He urged the people to continue their active participation in the democratic process, holding leaders accountable and contributing constructively to the state’s development.
“Our administration is built on the bedrock of democratic principles and the belief that governance must be responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that the dividends of democracy are widely distributed, fostering an environment of peace, progress, and economic prosperity for.
“Democracy thrives on active citizen engagement. I implore you all to remain vigilant, participate meaningfully in civic responsibilities, and collectively work towards strengthening our democratic institutions,” he added.
Governor Okpebholo wished all Nigerians a peaceful and reflective Democracy Day and prays for continued peace, unity, and progress in the state and the nation.
June 12: Ododo Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive Governance
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has called on Nigerians to rekindle the spirit of unity, civic responsibility, and democratic engagement as the nation marks the 2025 Democracy Day.
In a stirring message to commemorate the historic day, Governor Ododo described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s journey toward democratic governance, calling it “a solemn reminder that democracy is not gifted, it is earned.”
“Today, we celebrate as one people, united in history, in hope, and in purpose,” the governor declared, as he paid glowing tribute to the heroes of the 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in the country’s history but sadly annulled.
He acknowledged the sacrifices of pro-democracy champions, singling out President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as one of the foremost figures whose relentless struggle helped birth the democratic freedoms Nigerians now enjoy.
“The sacrifices made by pro-democracy heroes, including our father, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, must never be forgotten,” Ododo said.
Reaffirming Kogi State’s unwavering commitment to the democratic ideals of inclusion, justice, and accountability, Governor Ododo pledged to continue leading a people-centered administration that delivers concrete results in infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and security.
“We are not only beneficiaries of the democracy earned through the blood and sweat of our heroes; we are stewards of its promise,” he affirmed.
The governor emphasized that democracy thrives when it is participatory and accountable. He noted that his administration remains focused on building strong institutions, promoting transparency, and empowering citizens—especially the youth—to take an active role in governance.
“To our youth, you are not the leaders of tomorrow; you are the true guardians of our democracy today. This democracy belongs to you,” he charged.
Ododo also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society actors, and public servants to lead by example, stating that democracy is best measured not by titles or rhetoric, but by tangible results that improve the lives of the people.
“Let us remember that democracy is strengthened not by titles, but by service…not by rhetoric, but by results,” he said.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant against forces that threaten national unity, stressing the importance of defending democratic values from “disruption, division, and all other tendencies that undermine national interest.”
In a reaffirmation of alignment with national development goals, the governor pledged full support for the policies and programmes under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Concluding his message, the governor vowed to continue working “day and night” to protect the rights and freedoms of all residents of Kogi State, ensuring they can live and work in safety and dignity.
“Let us rise together in the spirit of nationhood. Let us stand together in the pursuit of progress. Let us walk together on the path of peace, equity, and sustainable development,” the governor urged.