June 12: “This is not democracy” — Atiku

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Atiku Abubakar has expressed concerns over the current state of Nigeria’s democracy, asserting that it remains deficient if it fails to deliver prosperity and liberty to its people.

In a statement posted on his verified X handle on Wednesday to commemorate Democracy Day, Abubakar emphasized the need for a more robust democratic system that fulfills its promises to the populace.

“Whereas our current democratic dispensation is a quarter of a century old, it will not be out of place to pay tributes to the sacrifices made by many patriots, chiefly among them Basorun MKO Abiola and his beloved wife, Alhaja (Mrs) Kudirat Abiola, Tafida Shehu Yar’Adua and Alfred Rewane, among many others,” Atiku Abubakar stated.

He highlighted the historical struggle for democracy in Nigeria, which involved coalitions and alliances among political leaders to eradicate military and dictatorial governance and restore power to the people. Despite 25 years of uninterrupted electoral politics, Abubakar contended that the democracy has yet to fully realize its potential.

“It is important that all stakeholders continue to do their bit to ensure the sustainability of our democracy,”  AtikuAbubakar added.

“But our democracy is not yet virile if it continually fails to deliver the promises of prosperity and liberty to the people.”

Acknowledging the commendable achievement of maintaining democratic processes for a quarter-century, Abubakar stressed that true democracy should be celebrated and upheld, but also critically evaluated to ensure it meets the needs of the nation.