The Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo has vowed to protect the citizens of the state from every form of criminal intimidations.
Governor Ododo made the vow on Thursday in a message to mark the celebration of Democracy Day in Nigeria.
“As your Chief Servant, I will work day and night to protect our people in every part of the state and our rights and freedom to pursue lawful means of livelihood in any part of the state without fear of intimidation by criminals because that is what our democracy guarantees as Nigerians,” he said.
The governor reminded Nigerians that the country did not get democracy as a gift, but earned it through the courage of ordinary citizens who dared to demand justice, fairness and inclusion.
“This day honours not just the memory of a historic election, but the stiff spirit of Nigerians who chose hope over fear, unity over division, and principle over personal gains.
“This day reminds us of the historic 1993 presidential election widely acclaimed as the freest and fairest in our nation’s history, which was unjustly annulled, sparking a national awakening that eventually paved the way for the democracy we enjoy today.
“The sacrifices made by pro-democracy heroes, including our father, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, must never be forgotten.
“In Kogi State, we are not only beneficiaries of that legacy, we are active stewards of it. We remain deeply committed to building a democracy that is participatory . A democracy that delivers, on justice, on opportunity, and on dignity for every citizen through inclusive governance,” he noted.
Governor Ododo emphasized his administration believes in transparent, accountable and people-oriented leadership.
“That is why we are building infrastructure, investing in human capital and agriculture and also overhauling primary healthcare facilities and strengthening security architecture to protect our people and lift them from want and deprivation.
“As we mark this year’s Democracy Day, let us rededicate ourselves to the principles that sustain equity, inclusiveness, and the rule of law in our nation. Let us deepen our civic engagement, respect our institutions, and nurture the flame of unity that binds the richness and diversity of Kogi State.
“To our youth, you are not the leaders of tomorrow; you are the true guardians of our democracy today. I enjoin you to participate and contribute to the success of our democracy. This democracy belongs to you, and it is your voice that will shape the future of our state and our country.
“To our traditional rulers, members of the civil society, political office holders, religious leaders, and public servants, let us remember that democracy is strengthened not by titles, but by service, not by rhetoric, but by results in policies, programmes and projects that impact the lives of our people positively,” he urged.
The governor urged Nigerians to work to protect the country’s democracy from disruption and divisions that threaten national interest.
