DEMOCRACY DAY: Nigeria Facing Political, Economic, Security Headwinds, Says Senate Minority Leader Moro

By Pan Afric Reporters

Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, has raised fresh concerns over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, warning that mounting political instability, economic hardship and worsening insecurity continue to threaten the nation’s democratic progress despite 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule.

Speaking ahead of the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, the senator representing Benue South Senatorial District said while the survival of democratic governance since 1999 deserves commendation, many Nigerians remain dissatisfied with the country’s democratic trajectory and the quality of governance.

Moro noted that the annual June 12 commemoration should serve not only as a celebration of democratic endurance but also as a moment for sober reflection on the challenges confronting the nation.

“Every year that June 12 comes and Nigerians are still in democracy, we have reason to celebrate. But many Nigerians will not agree that our democracy is on the right track,” he said.

The lawmaker identified the growing crisis within political parties as one of the major threats to democratic consolidation, citing persistent internal disputes, litigations and the absence of ideological foundations among political actors.

According to him, the increasing wave of defections across party lines reflects a deeper problem within Nigeria’s political system, where political parties have become mere vehicles for seeking power rather than institutions built on principles and programmes.

“Many politicians now see political parties simply as platforms for contesting elections and acquiring power rather than as organisations driven by ideology and conviction,” Moro observed.

The Minority Leader also painted a bleak picture of the country’s economic situation, saying rising inflation, unemployment and poverty have left millions of Nigerians struggling to survive.

“Nigerians are hurting. Inflation is on the rise, unemployment is on the rise, poverty is increasing and insecurity is worsening,” he lamented.

While acknowledging ongoing economic reforms by the Federal Government, Moro stressed that policy measures must translate into meaningful improvements in the living conditions of ordinary citizens.

He warned that the growing inability of many Nigerians to afford healthcare, education and other basic necessities underscores the urgent need for policies that deliver direct benefits to the people.

On the security situation, the senator expressed concern over the continued attacks on communities in Benue State and other parts of the country, describing insecurity as one of the greatest threats to national development and stability.

He criticized what he described as a reactive approach to security management and urged authorities to adopt preventive strategies capable of stopping attacks before they occur.

“The primary responsibility of government is the protection of lives and property. State governments must take responsibility and be more proactive in addressing insecurity,” Moro stated.

The lawmaker also called on state governments to deploy available resources more effectively towards strengthening local security frameworks and safeguarding vulnerable communities.

Reviewing the performance of the 10th Senate as it approaches its third anniversary, Moro said the National Assembly has made significant legislative progress despite criticism from some quarters.

According to him, the Senate has so far received approximately 844 bills, passed 96 of them, while more than 50 have already received presidential assent.

He maintained that the upper legislative chamber has continued to discharge its constitutional responsibilities through lawmaking, oversight functions and effective representation.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Moro dismissed concerns about opposition to his re-election bid, expressing confidence that his record of service and development initiatives across Benue South would earn him another mandate from the electorate.

The senator highlighted several constituency projects executed under his watch, including road construction, bridge projects, healthcare facilities, rural electrification schemes, water projects and educational interventions.

“I have not finished with my people yet, and my people have not finished with me,” he declared.

Despite the challenges facing the country, Moro urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the democratic process, emphasizing that nation-building requires perseverance, sacrifice and collective commitment.

“We are not where we are supposed to be, but we must keep hope alive and believe that the efforts being made today will eventually yield results,” he added.

As Nigerians mark Democracy Day, Moro’s remarks underscore growing concerns about governance, economic wellbeing and security, while also highlighting the need for renewed commitment to democratic values and national development.