…Says insecurity, hunger and unemployment threaten democratic gains
….Promises people-oriented governance and economic revival if elected
The Ogun State Governorship Candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP), Hon. Shokunbi Olanrewaju, has congratulated Nigerians and residents of Ogun State on the occasion of the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, urging citizens not to lose faith in the nation’s democratic journey despite prevailing economic and security challenges.
In a statement issued on Friday to commemorate June 12, Hon. Shokunbi described Democracy Day as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s political history and a reminder of the sacrifices made by patriotic citizens who fought for democratic governance.
The ADP governorship flagbearer noted that the annual celebration offers an opportunity for leaders and citizens alike to reflect on the state of the nation and recommit themselves to the ideals of justice, accountability, equity and good governance.
According to him, democracy remains the best form of government because it guarantees the people’s right to choose their leaders and hold them accountable for their actions.
He, however, lamented that many Nigerians are yet to fully enjoy the dividends of democracy due to worsening insecurity, rising poverty, unemployment and the high cost of living.
Shokunbi expressed concern over the growing hardship confronting millions of families across the country, saying that economic realities have made life increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens.
He observed that food prices continue to rise beyond the reach of average households, while many small and medium-scale businesses are struggling to survive under harsh economic conditions.
The governorship candidate also decried the persistent insecurity in several parts of the country, noting that banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other violent crimes have continued to threaten lives and livelihoods.
He stressed that no society can attain meaningful development where citizens live in fear and uncertainty.
Speaking on Ogun State, Shokunbi acknowledged the resilience and industrious nature of the people, describing them as one of the state’s greatest assets.
He said Ogun possesses enormous human and natural resources capable of transforming it into one of the most prosperous states in Nigeria if properly harnessed.
The ADP candidate maintained that the challenges facing Ogun State require visionary leadership, prudent management of resources and policies designed to improve the welfare of the people.
He pledged that an ADP-led administration would place priority on security, economic development, education, healthcare and youth empowerment.
According to him, his administration would work closely with security agencies, community leaders and relevant stakeholders to strengthen local security architecture and ensure the protection of lives and property.
Shokunbi further promised to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive by improving infrastructure, supporting entrepreneurship and attracting investments into critical sectors of the state’s economy.
He added that special attention would be given to agriculture as a means of creating jobs, enhancing food security and stimulating rural development.
The ADP standard bearer also vowed to introduce programmes targeted at empowering youths and women through vocational training, access to funding and skills acquisition initiatives.
He stated that quality education and accessible healthcare would remain central pillars of his development agenda, emphasizing that no society can progress without investing in its people.
While paying tribute to the heroes of democracy, particularly those who made sacrifices during the struggle for democratic rule, Shokunbi urged Nigerians to continue defending democratic values and national unity.
He called on citizens to remain peaceful, law-abiding and actively participate in the democratic process, saying collective efforts are required to build a more prosperous and secure nation.
The governorship hopeful assured Ogun residents that the Action Democratic Party is prepared to provide purposeful leadership that will address insecurity, revive the economy and deliver the dividends of democracy to every corner of the state.
“As we celebrate Democracy Day, let us renew our commitment to a better Nigeria and a greater Ogun State. Together, we can build a future of peace, prosperity and opportunities for all. The Action Democratic Party remains committed to providing the leadership required to tackle our challenges headlong and restore hope to the people,” he said.
