- Former House of Representatives member, Hon. Oghene Egoh, says Nigeria will never return to military rule.
- He commended the progress made under democratic governance and praised President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
- Egoh paid tribute to the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola and urged Nigerians to remain committed to democratic values.
A former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Oghene Egoh, has declared that democracy has come to stay in Nigeria, expressing confidence that the country will never return to military rule.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Egoh, who represented Amuwo-Odofin Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, made the assertion while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos as Nigerians commemorated the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
According to the former lawmaker, despite the challenges facing the nation, democratic governance remains far superior to military administration, citing increased civil liberties, citizen participation, and developmental strides recorded since the return to democratic rule.
“There are many freedoms Nigerians enjoy under democracy that were not available during military rule. Significant infrastructural development and improvements in human capital have also been recorded under democratic administrations compared to the old era,” he said.
Egoh noted that while Nigeria may not yet have attained the level of democratic maturity witnessed in some advanced nations, the country continues to make steady progress and remains on the path toward strengthening its democratic institutions.
He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, emphasizing that sustained commitment to democratic principles would further enhance governance and national development.
The former federal lawmaker also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda, describing the administration’s policies and reforms as strategic steps toward long-term economic growth and national transformation.
According to him, ongoing reforms may require patience but are necessary for building a stronger and more prosperous nation.
“President Tinubu’s administration is laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and national development. Nigerians should remain patient and continue to support government efforts as the reforms begin to yield positive results,” he stated.
Reflecting on the significance of Democracy Day, Egoh described the occasion as a period for national reflection and remembrance of individuals who sacrificed greatly for the restoration and sustenance of democratic governance in Nigeria.
He paid glowing tribute to the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola, widely regarded as the symbol of Nigeria’s democratic struggle, noting that his sacrifices would forever remain a source of inspiration.
“Abiola sacrificed his life, wealth and comfort in the struggle for democracy. His courage and commitment to the democratic cause remain an inspiration to present and future generations of Nigerians,” he said.
Egoh further urged political leaders across all levels of government to uphold the principles of accountability, transparency, inclusiveness, and good governance, stressing that these values are essential for strengthening democratic institutions and fostering national unity.
He also called on Nigerians to continue participating actively in the democratic process through responsible citizenship, peaceful conduct, and support for initiatives that promote national development.
“As citizens, we all have a role to play in sustaining democracy. Through active participation, peaceful engagement, and support for good governance, we can collectively build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
