Democracy Day: Defend democracy, reject electoral fraud, Omeri urges Nigerians

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

The PDP 2027 Nasarawa South senatorial candidate, Dr Mike Omeri, has called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in defending democracy and rejecting all forms of electoral fraud.

Omeri, in his Democracy Day message issued on Friday in Abuja, also stressed the need for citizens to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, accountability and respect for the people’s mandate.

The senatorial candidate, who is a former Director-General of National Orientation Agency (NOA), said June 12 remained a significant date in Nigeria’s democratic history.

According to him, it symbolises the sacrifices made by democratic heroes who fought for electoral integrity, constitutional governance and the rule of law.

“Democracy Day serves as a reminder of the courage displayed by Nigerians, following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election widely acclaimed as one of the freest and fairest elections in the country’s history.

“As we celebrate democracy, we must renew our commitment to its true spirit.

“Democracy cannot thrive where electoral manipulations, voter intimidation and result falsification are tolerated. Every vote must count and the will of the people must prevail,” he said.

Omeri urged his supporters and all Nigerians to remain law-abiding and vigilant in safeguarding the electoral process, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He also called on political gladiators and stakeholders to embrace issue-based campaigns and democratic tolerance as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

The former NOA boss warned against political violence, divisive politics and actions capable of undermining the integrity of the democratic process, saying politics should be driven by service, ideas and solutions rather than personal interests.

He also called on Nigerians to prioritise competence, character, integrity and performance when choosing leaders, regardless of political affiliations, ethnicity or other sentiments.

Omeri, who described the contributions of Nigerians to governance, peace and development in the country, including Nasarawa State, as unwavering, solicited for continuous prayers and support for the overall interest and growth of Nigeria in general and Nasarawa State in particular.

The senatorial candidate, while congratulating stakeholders on the occasion, urged all citizens to put more effort into strengthening democratic institutions, promoting national unity and advancing socio-economic development.

Expressing optimism that Nigeria’s democracy would continue to grow stronger through active citizen participation, accountability and adherence to democratic values, Omeri wished Nigerians a peaceful and memorable Democracy Day celebrations.

He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the interests of the people of Nasarawa State through responsive and development-oriented contributions.

The former NOA boss who commended the leadership of opposition parties at various levels toward ensuring peaceful, fair and credible polls in 2027, described PDP as a credible and dependable platform committed to providing good governance and people-oriented leadership.

On his contributions to the society, Omeri noted hat he had facilitated several employment opportunities and supported numerous humanitarian initiatives in healthcare, education, agriculture, infrastructure development and financial assistance to citizens, including vulnerable persons within and outside the state.

He reiterated his commitment to ensuring peace, unity and harmonious relationships, promising to champion policies aimed at job creation, youth empowerment, agricultural modernisation, industrial development and improved infrastructure.

According to him, the overall interest of his people and Nasarawa State remains his focus.

If elected, he pledged to promote economic growth, strengthening small and medium-scale enterprises, expanding opportunities for farmers and traders as well as advancing reforms capable of improving the living conditions of ordinary citizens.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

OBE/WAS

Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq