As Nigeria marks another Democracy Day on June 12, many citizens are expected to join in celebrating the nation's democratic journey and the sacrifices of those who fought for civil rule. Democracy Day is meant to symbolize freedom, justice, good governance, and the supremacy of the people's will. It is a day that should inspire hope and confidence in the ability of government to protect and serve its citizens.

However, for many Nigerians, particularly the families of kidnapped victims and communities living under the constant threat of insecurity, today's celebration is overshadowed by pain, fear, and uncertainty.

A democracy that cannot guarantee the safety of its citizens, especially innocent school children, must pause for sober reflection. Across parts of the country, reports of abductions, killings, banditry, and other forms of criminality continue to dominate public discourse. The heartbreaking reality that school children can be abducted and held captive for weeks while their families suffer emotional trauma raises serious concerns about the state of security in the nation.

While government officials gather to celebrate democratic achievements, many Nigerians are asking difficult questions. What is the essence of democracy when parents do not know whether their children will return home safely? What does freedom mean to families whose loved ones remain in captivity? What exactly are Nigerians celebrating when insecurity continues to threaten lives, education, and economic activities?

The primary responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property. This responsibility transcends politics, ceremonies, and public relations. It is the foundation upon which every democratic government derives its legitimacy. Therefore, when innocent citizens remain vulnerable to criminal elements, democracy itself is called into question.

The reality of democracy in Nigeria today reveals a troubling gap between democratic ideals and the everyday experiences of ordinary citizens. While democratic institutions continue to function, many Nigerians still struggle with insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, poverty, and inadequate public services. These challenges have created a growing sense of frustration among citizens who expected democracy to deliver greater peace, prosperity, and development.

The missing link remains sincere purpose in governance. Democracy should not merely be about elections, political appointments, or annual celebrations. It should be about the welfare, security, and dignity of the people. Government must demonstrate through concrete actions that the lives of citizens matter more than political ceremonies.

As Nigeria commemorates June 12, there is a need for leaders at all levels to reflect deeply on the condition of the nation. Democracy Day should not only be a celebration of past struggles but also a reminder of present responsibilities. The continued suffering of victims of kidnapping and insecurity demands urgent and decisive action from government and security agencies.

This is therefore a call on the Federal Government, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts toward the rescue of all kidnapped victims and the restoration of public confidence in the nation's security architecture. No parent should have to endure the agony of waiting endlessly for the safe return of a child. No child should be denied education because of fear of abduction.

A nation truly committed to democratic values must place the protection of human lives above every other consideration. The success of democracy is not measured by speeches delivered on June 12 but by the security, welfare, and happiness of the people.

As we mark Democracy Day 2026, may this occasion serve as a moment of national reflection rather than mere celebration. Until every Nigerian can live without fear and every child can attend school in safety, the quest for a democracy with sincere purpose remains unfinished.

THE TEARS OF AFFECTED FAMILIES SHOULD REMIND US THAT DEMOCRACY IS NOT COMPLETE UNTIL IT GUARANTEES SECURITY, JUSTICE, AND HOPE FOR ALL. 


COMR FAPETU OLUWADAMILOLA V. 
LECTURER AND PUBLIC ANALYST