By Victor Itodo Abuh
THE RESOURCE Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has criticized what it described as the growing commercialization and politicization of Democracy Day celebrations, insisting that June 12 should serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made for democratic governance rather than a platform for government ceremonies.
In a statement issued on Thursday to commemorate the 2026 Democracy Day, CHRICED said the significance of June 12 has been diminished by successive administrations that celebrate the date without addressing the challenges confronting ordinary Nigerians.
The organization noted that June 12 commemorates the historic 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest poll, won by the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola but annulled by the military regime of former Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida.
According to CHRICED, the annulment represented a betrayal of the Nigerian people and led to the persecution of pro-democracy activists, while Abiola eventually died in detention after years of struggle to reclaim his mandate.
“June 12, once etched in the national conscience as a symbol of democratic possibility, has again arrived—heavy with memory yet light on meaning in the hands of those who now claim to celebrate it,” the organization stated.
CHRICED acknowledged the decision of former President Muhammadu Buhari to officially designate June 12 as Democracy Day but argued that the symbolic recognition has not translated into policies that advance the ideals of justice, accountability and good governance championed by the late Abiola.
The civil society organization lamented worsening economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, inflation and poverty across the country, saying the realities faced by millions of Nigerians stand in sharp contrast to the promises of democracy.
“This is not the democracy Nigerians fought for. This is not the democracy June 12 promised,” the statement said.
The organization described the annual observance as increasingly characterized by “state-sponsored pageantry” and “empty rhetoric,” urging political leaders to focus on addressing citizens’ needs rather than celebrating democratic milestones without meaningful progress.
CHRICED maintained that democracy should be measured by its impact on citizens’ welfare, including the protection of human rights, provision of public services, security and economic opportunities.
As part of its Democracy Day message, the organization outlined a five-point demand aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Among its recommendations, CHRICED called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently reform voter registration processes, address recurring technical challenges, expand access to registration in underserved communities and provide clear timelines for electoral activities.
The group also urged the judiciary to ensure transparency, speed and independence in handling electoral disputes, warning that delays in resolving election-related cases undermine democratic governance.
Additionally, CHRICED called on elected officials at all levels to prioritize inflation control, job creation, security and the delivery of essential public services, while urging political parties to move beyond personality-driven politics and present clear policy alternatives to voters.
The organization further advocated increased citizen participation in governance through civic education, public hearings, budget monitoring and community accountability mechanisms.
“Democracy is not a date on the calendar. It is a duty. It is a promise. And it is long overdue,” the statement concluded.
The statement was signed by CHRICED Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi and Communications Officer, Furera Isiaka.
