June 12: Delta Residents Lament Widening Wealth Gap, Demand Democratic Reforms
As Nigerians marked the 27th anniversary of uninterrupted democratic rule and observed June 12 Democracy Day, residents of Delta State have expressed concern over worsening economic hardship and the widening gap between the wealthy and ordinary citizens.
Speaking in separate interviews in Asaba on Friday, the residents said the realities of daily living appear to contradict the promises made by political leaders since Nigeria’s return to democratic governance in 1999.
A public affairs analyst, Emeke Johnson, called for stronger democratic institutions, full judicial independence, stricter separation of powers, and comprehensive electoral reforms.
He urged President Bola Tinubu to take urgent action to address mounting insecurity and economic challenges affecting citizens across the country.
According to him, many Nigerians are struggling to survive as the rising cost of living continues to place pressure on households.
“Things are difficult and people are barely coping. Food prices, healthcare costs and general economic conditions remain challenging. Government must improve economic indicators and address insecurity,” he said.
Also speaking, commercial motorcyclist Kevwe Ogbo argued that democracy had not translated into improved living standards for many Nigerians.
He cited insecurity, high fuel prices, poor electricity supply and increasing costs of basic goods as major concerns affecting ordinary citizens.
“The income I earn daily is no longer enough to support my family. Many people are asking what there is to celebrate,” he said.
However, Roseline Ugbaja, a teacher, acknowledged progress in infrastructure development, particularly road rehabilitation projects carried out by the Delta State Government.
She said improved road conditions had reduced transportation difficulties in her area but noted that the high cost of living remained a major burden.
“The road leading to my residence was recently rehabilitated and that has reduced transportation stress. But living expenses remain high and many people still need support,” she said.
Ugbaja also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deliver free, fair and credible elections in 2027 to strengthen public trust in democracy.
She stressed that credible elections remain essential for sustaining democratic governance.
Meanwhile, Monday Nkeonye, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), praised Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for implementing his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda and delivering development projects across communities.
He urged Nigerians to remain patient, expressing optimism that current economic policies would eventually produce positive outcomes.
Security officer Isaac Mordi described 27 years of uninterrupted democracy as a notable achievement but insisted that deeper reforms were needed.
He called for improvements in the electoral system, security architecture and judicial sector, warning that public confidence in institutions had weakened.
“Government must work for all citizens and not just a privileged few. Democracy should produce visible improvements in people’s lives,” he said.
Youth leader Charity Anih maintained that despite current challenges, democracy remained Nigeria’s best path forward.
She encouraged greater political participation and urged political parties to prioritise internal democracy and present capable candidates during elections.
According to her, increased citizen engagement and leadership focused on tackling unemployment, insecurity and economic hardship are necessary to improve national development.
