The Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, has expressed deep concerns about the state of Nigeria’s democracy, saying the country is facing significant political, economic and security challenges despite marking another Democracy Day on June 12.

Speaking ahead of the annual celebration, Moro said while Nigerians have reason to celebrate the survival of democratic governance, many citizens would disagree that democracy is progressing in the right direction.

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

According to the Benue South senator, political parties across the country are plagued by internal crises, litigations and a lack of ideological direction, resulting in frequent defections by politicians seeking platforms for electoral contests.

He argued that democracy can only be deepened when political parties are built around clear principles and commitments rather than serving merely as vehicles for attaining power.

Moro lamented the worsening economic conditions facing Nigerians, noting that inflation, unemployment and poverty continue to rise while the cost of living places enormous pressure on citizens.

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

The lawmaker acknowledged that the current administration is attempting to implement reforms but stressed that such reforms must align with the aspirations and expectations of ordinary Nigerians.

He noted that many citizens now struggle to pay hospital bills, school fees and other basic necessities, warning that the country cannot continue on its current path.

The Minority Leader also raised concerns about the deteriorating security situation in Benue State and across the country, describing attacks by suspected armed herdsmen as a form of war against local communities.

Referencing a recent Senate intervention, Moro questioned what he described as contradictions in the government’s approach to insecurity, citing the case of a constituent who has allegedly been detained for over a year for possessing arms while armed attackers continue to operate with sophisticated weapons.

He accused state governments of failing to adequately utilize security votes and local government resources to protect vulnerable communities.

“The primary responsibility of government is the protection of lives and property. Governors must take responsibility for security in their states rather than remain reactive to attacks,” he said.

Moro urged authorities to strengthen local security structures and adopt more proactive measures against recurring attacks in rural communities.

On Senate’s Legislative Record

Assessing the performance of the 10th Senate under the leadership of Godswill Akpabio as it approaches its third anniversary, Moro highlighted the chamber’s legislative achievements.

According to him, approximately 844 bills have been introduced in the Senate, with about 96 passed and more than 50 already receiving presidential assent. He also pointed to numerous motions, oversight activities and annual budget considerations as evidence of the Senate’s work.

While acknowledging existing challenges, he maintained that the Senate has continued to discharge its constitutional responsibilities effectively.

Addressing reports of opposition to his bid for another term in the Senate, Moro expressed confidence that the people of Benue South would renew his mandate in 2027.

He cited numerous constituency projects, including road construction, bridges, healthcare centres, water schemes, rural electrification projects, classroom construction and youth empowerment initiatives across the district.

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

The senator said his performance record would ultimately determine the outcome of future elections, insisting that he still has more to offer his constituents.

Moro also state that Democracy Remains a Work in Progres, In his Democracy Day message to Nigerians, he urged citizens not to lose hope despite current challenges.

“Building a nation is work in progress. 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 said.

He called for collective commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and improving the living conditions of Nigerians as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.