Democracy Day: Monarch Calls For Unity, Vigilance

As Nigeria marks this year’s Democracy Day, the Chairman, Supreme Forum of Ikwerre Government Recognised Traditional Rulers, King Leslie Eke, has issued a heartfelt royal advisory to Nigerians, urging unity, vigilance, and a renewed commitment to the democratic ideals upon which the nation stands.
In a statement delivered from his palace in Woji Community on Tuesday, King Eke, who is the Eze Oha Evo III of Evo Kingdom in Local Government Area of Rivers State, described Democracy Day as “not merely a day of remembrance, but a solemn call to action for every Nigerian—leaders and citizens alike.”
“Democracy is not just about elections or politics; it is about justice, equity,and service to the people. As custodians of culture and conscience, traditional institutions remain pillars of stability in a fast-changing Nigeria,” he said.
Reflecting on the significance of the day, which commemorates the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, the monarch, who also is the President of Association of Christian Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (AOCTRON), emphasised the role of the people in sustaining democracy.
“Let us remember that the power of democracy lies not only in the ballot but in the everyday conduct of leadership and citizenship. We must build bridges, not walls. Ethnic and religious divisions must give way to unity and common purpose,” he added.
Addressing young Nigerians, he encouraged civic participation, responsible engagement on social media, and a dedication to peacebuilding.
He also called on political leaders to prioritise national interest above personal gain.
“Democracy without good governance is a betrayal of those who died for our freedom. Let June 12 remind us that the struggle continues—not for power, but for the prosperity and dignity of every Nigerian,” he said.
The Eze Gbakagbaka also called for a partnership between traditional institutions and government at all levels to entrench democratic values, preserve Nigeria’s heritage, and ensure a more united, peaceful, and prosperous nation.
On the rumoured possibility of lifting the suspension on the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on June 12, he said it would be a welcome development given that the people’s hope of democratic values would be rekindled.