By Emeka Nwokocha
As Nigeria commemorates democracy day, today, June 12, the Citizens Rights Concern Enhancement Initiative (CRCEI), has lauded Nigerians for their endurance, resilience and unyielding commitment to sustaining the country’s democratic journey despite socioeconomic and political hurdles.
The organisation called on Nigerian government to uphold rule of law as the foundational anchor of democracy and promote the welfare and security of the citizens. CRCEI noted that though the nation has had uninterrupted democratic government for 27 years, but the living conditions for the majority of Nigerians have deteriorated significantly due to persistent multi-dimensional hardships as over 60% of the population currently lives below the national poverty line. It described the situation as intolerable.
CRCEI said, “A nation’s democratic success is ultimately defined by its ability to translate political freedom into tangible human progress,” adding that democratic development is not just about holding elections; it is measured by improved living standards, economic empowerment, and guaranteed fundamental rights for all citizens,”
CRCEI intensified calls to Nigerian government for the immediate rescue of teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents since March 15, 2026. “We will not be commemorating democracy day with pump while innocent Nigerian children are languishing in bandits den in Oyo bush,” CRCEI lamentably stated.
Continuing, CRCEI condemned the prolonged detention of Okuama community leaders in military cells without trial, calling on the Nigerian government to halt the perpetual incarceration of the detainees in military facilities, respect the rule of law, and enforce their constitutional rights to a fair hearing in a competent court of law.
CRCEI said, “Honoring historic struggles for freedom loses its value if democratic culture is deliberately desecrated. The true measure of democracy lies in respecting the rule of law, ensuring free and fair elections, and upholding fundamental human rights. Without these tenets, commemorative holidays become mere pageantry rather than celebrations of true liberty.”
CRCEI noted that the Nigerian state is currently going through tough challenges, advising that while the nation commemorates democracy day, the Federal Government should prioritise promoting democratic values such as transparency, the rule of law, and inclusive governance, to build trust and ensure citizens tangibly benefit from civil rule.
CRCEI pledged its support to the Nigerian government in building formidable democratic institutions, emphasising that building strong institutions is essential to serving as a bulwark for a sustainable and responsive democratic government in Nigeria. “Happy democracy day to all Nigerians!” CRCEI stated.