By joshua June 12: Democracy, Work In Progress, But Worth Celebrating – Abu Micheal.
As Nigeria marks Democracy Day, Publisher of The Nigerian Post Newspaper and Editor-in-Chief, Abu Michael, has described the nation’s democratic journey as “a work in progress with a decline in democratic values,” while insisting there are still strong reasons for Nigerians to celebrate June 12.
In a Democracy Day reflection, Micheal said the day is more than “another public holiday with rice and music.” He framed it as a reminder of Nigeria’s collective struggle for civil rule and a prompt to protect gains already made.
He however said democracy re canmains significant pointing out that it was a day
We chose our voice – June 12 marks the 1993 presidential election where Nigerians overwhelmingly voted for MKO Abiola across ethnic and religious lines. “Celebrating it means we remember that our vote counts, and that collective choice is stronger than force,” he said.
Freedom to speak and hold leaders accountable – Under democracy, citizens can criticize government on radio, Twitter/X, or in the market without fearing arrest like in military eras. “That freedom to ask ‘what are you doing with our money?’ is not small,” Michael noted.
Peaceful change of power – Since 1999, Nigeria has had several civilian-to-civilian transitions with no coups or tanks on the streets. “That stability lets businesses plan, students finish school, and families build lives,” he added.
More Nigerians are involved in governance – From councilors in wards to senators in Abuja, democracy means representation. “People from your LGA, your language group, your profession can run and make laws. That’s power distributed, not concentrated.”
Space for growth and rights – Democracy provides room for press freedom, human rights groups, youth activism like #EndSARS, and women’s political participation. “It’s not perfect, but the space exists to push for better,” he said.
It honors sacrifice – Many Nigerians lost jobs, freedom, and lives fighting for civil rule. “Celebrating Democracy Day is also about honoring that sacrifice so it was not in vain,” Michael stated.
While urging celebration, Micheal did not shy away from Nigeria’s democratic deficits. He said calling out challenges is not “anti-democracy” but how citizens make it work better:
Money politics & vote buying – Elections often go to the highest bidder, not the best ideas. “‘Stomach infrastructure’ on election day means leaders can win without a real plan. That weakens accountability after they get in.”
Weak institutions – INEC, the judiciary, and anti-corruption agencies suffer political interference, funding issues, and delays. “When institutions are weak, impunity thrives.”
Godfatherism – Many politicians answer to sponsors, not voters. “So decisions in office often serve a small circle instead of the public.”
Ethnicity & religion over issues – Voting based on “our brother” or “our faith” instead of policy or competence divides citizens and lets leaders avoid questions about roads, jobs, health, and education.
Low civic education – Many Nigerians don’t fully understand their rights, how budgets work, or the difference between councilors and senators. “When citizens don’t know the rules, leaders can bend them.”
Slow governance & bureaucracy – Debate and checks are good, but in Nigeria they sometimes become endless meetings and stalled projects while problems pile up.
Corruption + impunity – Weak accountability means public funds get diverted and constituency projects disappear. “And when offenders aren’t punished, the cycle repeats.”
Insecurity & election violence – Thuggery, ballot snatching, and post-election violence still keep voters home in some areas, so results don’t reflect the real will of the people.
Micheal concluded that democracy is a tool, not a destination. “It works only if we maintain it. Stronger institutions, voter education, and citizens demanding performance are how we fix these pitfalls.”
He called for a “return to the drawing board,” noting that Nigeria’s current state shows the country is far from getting democracy right.
“Celebrating June 12 is both thanksgiving for how far we’ve come, and a push to demand more from leaders at all levels,” he said.
The Nigerian Post Newspaper was founded to amplify public interest journalism and hold power to account.