Ogun Young Progressives Party congratulates all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora on the occasion of 2026 Democracy Day, June 12.
June 12 remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey. It reminds us of the courage of citizens who stood for free and fair elections in 1993 and the resilience that brought democratic governance back in 1999. Twenty-seven years after, we salute the Nigerian people for their commitment to democracy despite the odds.
Dividends yet to meet expectations
While Nigeria has enjoyed uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999, the dividends of democracy have not met the expectations of most citizens. Millions of Nigerians still struggle daily with issues that democracy should have solved: a decent livelihood, personal safety, and access to opportunity.
challenges facing Nigerians
1. Economic hardship & cost of living : Rising food prices, transport costs, and energy tariffs have eroded purchasing power. Many families now make painful choices between food, health care and education.
2. Unemployment: Youth unemployment remains high. Without jobs and skills, a generation of talented Nigerians is left vulnerable and frustrated.
3. Insecurity, kidnapping & abduction: Banditry, insurgency, armed robbery and kidnapping for ransom continue across the country. The abduction of schoolchildren has disrupted education and instilled fear in parents and communities. Highways and farms have become unsafe for ordinary citizens.
Our call to action
As we mark June 12, YPP urge the Federal Government, National Assembly and state governments to take decisive steps:
1. Fast-track State Police legislation: The various State Police Bills before the National Assembly must be expedited and passed. A properly regulated, decentralized policing structure that works with communities is critical to tackling kidnapping, banditry and local crime. Security is local, and the response must be local.
2. Targeted economic relief and job creation: Expand transparent social protection for vulnerable households while investing in agriculture, rural roads, cold storage and vocational training to reduce food costs and create jobs for youth.
3. Protect schools and learners: Implement the Safe Schools Initiative with perimeter fencing, emergency alert systems, and community watch groups in high-risk areas. No child should choose between education and safety.
Democracy Day should not be reduced to ceremonies. It must be a day of honest assessment and renewed commitment. Nigerians voted for democracy in 1993 and have sustained it since 1999. Now democracy must deliver: food on the table, safety on the streets, and hope for the next generation.
We stand with all Nigerians calling for a nation where democratic governance translates to real improvements in daily life.
Signed
Hon. Adeyemi S. Oluwaseyifunmi (ASO)
Ogun State Chairman
Young Progressives Party (YPP)
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