June 12: Democracy has survived, but Nigerians are hurting - Senate Minority Leader, Moro

By Tolu Temidire

As Nigeria marks the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, Senate Minority Leader and Senator representing Benue South Senatorial District, Comrade Abba Moro, has declared that although democracy has endured over the years, many Nigerians are yet to feel its benefits due to growing economic hardship and insecurity.

Moro described Nigeria's democratic journey as “a work in progress,” saying citizens have reasons to celebrate the sustenance of democratic rule but also legitimate concerns about the direction of governance in the country.

“Every year that June 12 comes and Nigerians are still in democracy, we have reason to celebrate. But I can assure you that many Nigerians will not agree that our democracy is on the right track,” he said.

The Senator, in a statement by his Media Adviser, Emmanuel Eche'Ofun John, noted that persistent political, economic and security challenges continue to cast a shadow over the country's democratic gains.

According to him, one of the major obstacles to democratic development is the absence of strong ideological foundations within political parties, a situation he said has fuelled internal crises, litigations and the frequent movement of politicians from one party to another.

He stressed that democracy would only flourish when political parties are built on clear principles and values rather than being used merely as vehicles for winning elections and accessing power.

Moro also expressed concern over the worsening economic situation, saying millions of Nigerians are struggling to cope with rising inflation, unemployment and poverty.

“Nigerians are hurting. Inflation is on the rise, unemployment is on the rise, poverty is increasing and insecurity is worsening,” he stated.

While acknowledging efforts by the current administration to reform the economy, he argued that such reforms must produce tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens.

The lawmaker noted that many Nigerians now find it increasingly difficult to afford healthcare, education and other basic necessities, warning that urgent measures are needed to ease the burden on the populace.

On security, Moro described the continued attacks on communities in Benue State and other parts of the country by suspected armed herdsmen as deeply troubling.

He said the recurring assaults have left many rural communities vulnerable and questioned what he called inconsistencies in the government's response to insecurity.

The Senator cited the case of one of his constituents who, according to him, has remained in detention for more than a year over possession of firearms, while criminal groups continue to operate with sophisticated weapons.

“The primary responsibility of government is the protection of lives and property. Governors must take responsibility for security in their states rather than remain reactive to attacks,” he said.

He called on authorities at all levels to strengthen local security mechanisms and adopt preventive strategies capable of stopping attacks before they occur.

Assessing the performance of the 10th Senate as it approaches its third anniversary, Moro said the upper chamber has recorded notable achievements in lawmaking and oversight.

He disclosed that approximately 844 bills have been introduced since the inauguration of the Senate, with 96 already passed and more than 50 signed into law by the President.

According to him, the Senate has also undertaken extensive oversight activities and considered annual budgets aimed at advancing national development.

On his political future, Moro expressed optimism that the people of Benue South would return him to the Senate in 2027.
He pointed to several constituency projects executed across the district, including roads, bridges, health facilities, water projects, rural electrification schemes, classroom construction and youth empowerment programmes.

“I have not finished with my people yet, and my people have not finished with me,” he declared.

The lawmaker maintained that his stewardship and contributions to the development of the district would speak for themselves when voters head to the polls.

As Nigerians commemorate Democracy Day, Moro urged citizens not to give up on the nation despite prevailing challenges.

“Building a nation is work in progress. We are not where we are supposed to be, but we must keep hope alive and believe that the efforts being made today will eventually yield results,” he said.

He called for greater commitment to democratic values, stronger institutions and policies that improve the welfare of Nigerians, while wishing citizens a peaceful and memorable Democracy Day celebration.