JUNE 12: Entrenching Democracy In Abia Through Re-electing Gov. Alex Otti in 2027

By David Kalu

‎Every June 12, Nigerians celebrate Democracy Day. The day was officially adopted in remembrance of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest election in Nigeria’s history.

‎June 12 is not merely a day for speeches, parades, and public holidays. It is a reminder that democracy belongs to the people and that the power of government comes from the ballot. It is a day to remember the sacrifices made by patriotic Nigerians who fought for democratic governance and the right of citizens to freely choose their leaders.

‎The significance of June 12 goes beyond the history of the annulled election. It serves as a reminder that democracy must continuously be protected, strengthened, and defended through active citizen participation.

‎Democracy thrives when eligible citizens perform their civic responsibilities, which include but not limited to registering and collecting their Permanent Voter Cards, participate in elections that must be free, fair, and transparent; when leaders remain accountable to the people and development and good governance remain the focus of government.

‎The spirit of June 12 demands from Nigerians not only to remember the past but also to prepare for the future.

‎‎In line with the ideals of June 12, a pro-group, the Alex Otti 4+4 Movement 2027  is planning to organized a Pre-Democracy Rally in Abia State. The rally is not merely a political gathering; it is a civic mobilization initiative aimed at deepening democratic participation among Abians.

The movement seeks, through the rally, to educate and mobilize eligible citizens to register, collect and safeguard their PVC because a voter without a PVC cannot participate in the democratic process. ‎ Also, the rally would provide an opportunity to educate citizens on the importance of democracy, voting rights, and responsible civic participation.

The Movement recognizes the developmental strides witnessed under the administration of Governor Alex Otti and would employ the rally to highlight the importance of sustaining people-oriented governance; as well as encourage participation from every ward, community, polling unit, and local government area in Abia State.

‎‎‎‎One of the major discussions surrounding the future of Abia State currently is how to sustain the gains achieved under the administration of Governor Alex Otti.

‎Development is a journey, not a destination. Roads, education, healthcare, security, youth empowerment, economic development and public sector reforms require continuity and consistency.

‎The Alex Otti 4+4 Movement believes that the best way to protect the progress made in Abia under the Dr. Alex Otti-led administration revolves around supporting the completion of ongoing projects; strengthening democratic institutions; building a culture of accountability and transparency; encouraging citizens participation in governance and ensuring that future leaders are committed to sustaining developmental achievements.

‎‎As discussions about the future of Abia State continue, citizens should prioritize leaders who possess the following qualities: integrity and accountability; proven leadership capacity; commitment to public service, respect for the rule of law; vision for economic growth; passion for education and healthcare; as well as dedication to transparency and prudent management of public resources.

The rally would serve as a route to early mobilization, to prepare citizens for active participation in the 2027 electoral process to achieve the continuity we want.

‎‎June 12 teaches us that democracy succeeds when citizens participate actively in the electoral process. The power to shape the future of Abia State lies not in government alone but in the collective will of the people. ‎

The Pre-Democracy Rally is therefore a call for every Abian to obtain and protect their PVC, participate actively in elections, support good governance, defend democratic values, promote peace and unity and encourage responsible leadership.

‎‎As Nigeria commemorated Democracy Day last Friday, June 12, Abians must remember that democracy is not only about celebrating the past but also about preparing for the future. The Alex Otti 4+4 Movement 2027 Pre-Democracy Rally represents a commitment to democratic participation, civic responsibility, and the continuation of good governance in the state.

‎The challenge before every citizen is to ensure that the progress recorded today is not reversed tomorrow. Through active participation, voter mobilization, and support for people-oriented governance, Abians can secure a brighter future for generations to come.

‎Democracy is not merely about electing leaders; it is about sustaining progress, preserving accountability and building a greater Abia State.

‎At ALEX OTTI 4+4 MOVEMENT 2027, our goal is to sustain good governance, strengthen democracy and build the future. ‎

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‎*Hon. David Kalu is the ‎General Secretary, ‎Alex Otti 4+4 Movement 2027