Democracy Day: Government gradually becoming a cabal – Atsar

…Calls for Resilience to Protect Democracy

Terver Shirsha Atsar, a 2027 Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives hopeful and former governorship aspirant has called on Nigerians to remain steadfast and resilient as the nation approaches the 2027 general elections.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999, Atsar regretted that many of the very beneficiaries of democratic rule have become the greatest saboteurs of democracy in the country.

According to him, “What we are increasingly witnessing is a quasi-democracy where power is concentrated in the hands of a few. The government is gradually becoming one of a cabal, by a cabal, and for a cabal, rather than a government of the people, by the people, and for the people.”

He lamented the growing disconnect between elected leaders and the citizens they are meant to serve, noting that the ideals of accountability, transparency, and popular participation are being steadily eroded.

“We now have another opportunity in 2027 to make our choice of leaders. The habit of collecting crumbs during elections and then wailing for four years afterward must stop. Democracy can only work when citizens exercise their voting rights responsibly and hold leaders accountable for their actions,” he said.

Atsar urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to resist political manipulation, vote-buying, intimidation, and all forms of electoral malpractice that undermine the sanctity of the ballot.

He stressed that Democracy Day should serve as a reminder that freedom and good governance are not gifts but responsibilities that must be actively protected by the people.

“The future of our nation depends on the choices we make today. We must reject politics of division, poverty, and dependency, and embrace leadership founded on competence, integrity, and service. Every vote matters, and every citizen has a role to play in safeguarding our democracy.”

The ADC chieftain further called on electoral institutions, security agencies, civil society organizations, and political actors to play their respective roles in ensuring that future elections reflect the genuine will of the people.

“As we celebrate Democracy Day, let us renew our commitment to building a Nigeria where power truly belongs to the people. The task before us is not merely to participate in elections but to defend democracy itself. Together, through resilience, vigilance, and active citizenship, we can restore hope and strengthen our democratic institutions.”

He wished Nigerians a peaceful Democracy Day celebration and expressed optimism that the country can still achieve a more inclusive, accountable, and people-centered democracy.