On a day like this “June 12″ when Nigerians are told to remember the spirit of democracy, we at Arogbo-Ibe Voice Reporters do not raise our pens in celebration. We raise our voices in solemn protest.
For far too long, as a people, what we have called “democracy” in Nigeria has functioned more as a shield for the powerful than as a system that empowers the people. What was meant to be a government of the people, by the people, and for the people has become a brutal theatre of selective justice, silenced voices, manipulate election results, and betrayed hopes; especially in the creeks, corners, and coastal communities of this nation.
A System That Forgets Its People
In Arogbo-Ibe and across the Ijaw-speaking communities of the Niger Delta, we have watched as governors trample on local government autonomy. Council chairmen are handpicked, not elected. Budgets are controlled from state capitals, not by the people they are meant to serve. Youths are manipulated or ignored. Elders are disrespected. Our environment is exploited, our leaders are sidelined, and our votes are treated as bargaining chips, not sacred voices.
What then is democracy, if not the freedom to choose, to govern ourselves, and to build a future that reflects our dreams?
What we practice today is not democracy. It is a masquerade of deceit, a costumed corruption, where the ruling elite uses the word “democracy” to earn international applause while denying its spirit at home.
When Elections Are Games, Not Gateways
In every election cycle, ballot boxes are hijacked. Community mandates are overridden by party godfathers. INEC looks the other way while the will of the people is drowned in violence or inducement. Where is the justice? Where is the transparency? Where is the accountability?
If votes do not count, democracy is dead. If people cannot speak without fear, democracy is dead. And if the grassroots cannot grow because the center has hoarded all the rain, then the soil of our republic has turned to dust.
The Niger Delta Deserves Better
For over two decades, the Niger Delta has given this country wealth; in oil, gas, and human capital. And what have we received in return? Militarization. Neglect. Tokenism. Environmental ruin. Our youths, rich in talent and pride, are forced to beg for contracts and appointments that should be their right.
We say enough is enough.
Time for Real Democracy, Not Decorative Democracy
True democracy begins at the ward, not in Abuja. It begins when a fisherman’s daughter can become a local councillor through merit. It begins when community leaders are respected, not used. It begins when our people can elect their own leaders without fear or fraud.
We call on the federal government, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judiciary, and all lovers of liberty to rise and restore democracy at the grassroots. Let local governments be free. Let communities speak. Let justice breathe.
To the people of Arogbo-Ibe, we say: do not lose hope. This land has given birth to warriors, scholars, and freedom fighters. Let us rise; not with weapons of war, but with weapons of truth, unity, and unshakable purpose.
Let our generation be remembered not for surrender, but for standing firm until democracy becomes real; not a ceremony, but a contract of justice.
Signed:
The Editorial Board,
Arogbo-Ibe Voice Reporters
