By Amaka Okafor
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has reaffirmed his commitment to deepening democracy through stronger institutions, transparency, accountability, and active citizen participation in governance.
In a message to commemorate the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, the governor joined Nigerians in marking the nation’s democratic journey, describing June 12 as a symbol of freedom, justice, and constitutional governance.
“Today commemorates Democracy Day, and I join millions of compatriots and patriots across our great nation in celebrating the triumph of the democratic spirit and the resilience of a people who have consistently chosen freedom, justice, popular participation and constitutional governance over tyranny and oppression,” Nwifuru stated.
The governor emphasized that democracy can only flourish when institutions are strengthened and citizens are empowered to participate meaningfully in decision-making processes. He noted that his administration has remained committed to engaging stakeholders across political, religious, traditional, and professional divides.
According to him, governance must be inclusive and responsive to the aspirations of the people. He stressed that every segment of society deserves a voice in shaping the future of the state and contributing to its development.
“Ebonyi State stands as a perfect example of what visionary leadership, strategic planning and collective commitment can achieve. The progress we celebrate today is not the achievement of government alone but the product of a partnership between government and the people,” he said.
Nwifuru described Democracy Day as an opportunity to reflect on the relationship between government and citizens, assess stewardship, and renew commitments to delivering purposeful leadership under the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda.
Expressing gratitude to God and the people of Ebonyi State, the governor said the confidence reposed in his administration has inspired the government to pursue transformative policies and programmes. He highlighted investments in education, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship development, scholarship schemes, skills acquisition, and capacity-building initiatives.
The governor also paid tribute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his role in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. “I salute President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, one of the foremost champions of democratic restoration, who stood firmly with other patriots in the trenches of the pro-democracy struggle during some of the most difficult periods in our national history,” he said.
