A former senatorial aspirant on the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Austin Orette, has identified ignorance and poverty as major obstacles to the growth and sustainability of democracy in Nigeria, calling for greater civic education and citizen participation in governance.
Orette stated this in a Democracy Day reflection titled, “Ignorance and Poverty: The Problems With Democracy in Nigeria,” issued on Saturday from Owhelogbo in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.
He said while Nigerians have reasons to celebrate democratic rule, there is also a need for reflection on the state of governance and civic engagement in the country.
According to him, June 12 remains a historic symbol of sacrifice and the struggle for freedom, justice and the rule of law, stressing that Nigerians must ask whether they still owe allegiance to those who fought and died for democratic ideals.
He argued that democracy can only thrive where leaders govern with the consent of the people and in accordance with the rule of law.
“We should define our democracy in Nigeria and continue to defend the principles of justice, freedom and rule of law that define free people,” he said.
Orette maintained that Nigerians are not truly free when poverty, disease and lack of education are used as instruments that weaken citizens and reduce public participation in governance.
He criticised what he described as a culture of political entitlement among elected leaders, insisting that public office holders should be judged strictly on performance and voted out where necessary.
According to him, democracy remains one of the most difficult systems of government because it requires active participation and informed decision-making by citizens.
He blamed voter apathy and vote buying for weakening democratic institutions and argued that uninformed participation poses a threat to democratic development.
Orette further lamented what he described as widespread ignorance of governance structures among citizens, noting that many Nigerians remain disconnected from local government administration and legislative activities.
He encouraged citizens to become more involved by attending legislative sittings, observing judicial proceedings and learning how democratic institutions operate.
The former senatorial aspirant also urged Nigerians to hold elected representatives at all levels accountable rather than directing criticism solely at the presidency.
According to him, stronger civic awareness would help citizens understand their responsibilities and reduce opportunities for poor leadership and abuse of power.
He warned that politicians often benefit from public ignorance and urged Nigerians to use knowledge as a tool to challenge corruption and demand better governance.
“The journey of democracy requires perpetual vigilance,” he said.
Orette urged citizens to reject sycophancy, embrace political awareness and actively participate in shaping the nation’s democratic future.
