Democracy Day: Keep Hope Alive Despite Challenges, Abba Moro Urges Nigerians

:Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, has urged Nigerians not to lose hope despite the country's political, economic and security challenges, stressing that nation-building remains a gradual process.

Speaking ahead of the June 12 Democracy Day celebration, Moro acknowledged that while the continued survival of democratic governance is worth celebrating, many Nigerians remain dissatisfied with the state of the nation.

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

Political Parties Lack Ideological Direction

The Benue South lawmaker expressed concern over the recurring crises, litigations and defections that characterize Nigeria's political parties, arguing that democracy can only thrive when parties are built on clear principles and ideologies rather than serving as platforms for political convenience.

According to him, the absence of ideological commitment has weakened the country's democratic institutions and contributed to instability within the political system.

Economic Hardship Taking Toll on Citizens

Moro lamented the worsening economic conditions across the country, saying rising inflation, unemployment, poverty and the high cost of living have left many Nigerians struggling to survive.

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

While acknowledging ongoing government reforms, he stressed that such policies must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens, many of whom are finding it increasingly difficult to afford healthcare, education and other basic necessities.

Insecurity Remains Major Concern

The Senate Minority Leader also decried the deteriorating security situation, particularly in Benue State, where he described attacks by suspected armed herders as a sustained assault on local communities.

He called on federal and state authorities to strengthen security measures, improve intelligence gathering and empower local security structures to respond more effectively to emerging threats.

Moro also urged governors to make better use of security votes and available resources, insisting that protecting lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government.

Senate Has Recorded Significant Achievements

Reviewing the performance of the 10th Senate under Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Moro said the upper chamber has remained productive despite prevailing challenges.

He disclosed that about 844 bills have been introduced, with 96 passed and more than 50 already signed into law by the President. He also highlighted the Senate's oversight functions, motions and budget scrutiny as evidence of its commitment to governance.

Confident of 2027 Victory

Responding to speculations about opposition to his re-election bid, Moro expressed confidence that the people of Benue South would return him to the Senate in 2027.

He cited several constituency projects, including roads, bridges, healthcare facilities, water projects, electrification schemes, classroom construction and youth empowerment programmes, as proof of his commitment to the district.

"I have not finished with my people yet, and my people have not finished with me," he said.

Democracy a Work in Progress

In his Democracy Day message, Moro called on Nigerians to remain optimistic and committed to strengthening democratic institutions.

"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 urged citizens to work collectively towards a more secure, prosperous and democratic Nigeria as the country looks ahead to the 2027 general elections.