Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu has said that democracy should not be measured solely by the conduct of elections but by the ability of leaders to remain responsive, accountable, and committed to the aspirations of the people.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate for Nasarawa State made the assertion in a Democracy Day message, where he called on Nigerians to embrace unity, accountability, and inclusive governance as the nation commemorates the annual celebration.
Wadada described Democracy Day as a significant reminder of Nigeria’s democratic journey, the sacrifices made by citizens, and the collective responsibility to uphold the principles of freedom, justice, equity, and good governance.
According to him, effective democratic governance requires leaders to prioritize the welfare of the people and ensure that policies and programmes reflect the needs and aspirations of citizens.
Senator Wadada reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Nasarawa State through the Wadada Hearts Agenda, a governance blueprint designed to promote empowerment, inclusivity, and sustainable growth across the state.
He explained that the agenda focuses on creating opportunities for young people, empowering women, advancing sustainable community development, and ensuring that government policies deliver meaningful benefits to residents.
“The future of our dear state lies in unity, hard work, and purposeful leadership driven by sincerity and compassion for the people,” Wadada stated.
He also urged citizens to continue promoting peace, tolerance, and active participation in the democratic process, stressing that nation-building requires the collective efforts of both leaders and the governed.
The APC gobernatorial candidate further called for renewed hope and commitment toward building a prosperous and inclusive Nasarawa State where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive and no one is left behind.
Democracy Day is observed annually in Nigeria to honour the country’s democratic evolution and reaffirm the nation’s commitment to democratic values, good governance, and the rule of law.