Today is Democracy Day in Nigeria.

A day set aside to celebrate freedom, the power of the people, and the progress of a democratic nation.

But if I'm being honest, I do not feel like celebrating.

How do we celebrate democracy when many citizens live in fear?

How do we wave flags and post congratulatory messages when families are still praying for the safe return of loved ones who were taken from them?

Over the past weeks, we have continued to hear heartbreaking reports of teachers, schoolchildren, farmers, travelers, and ordinary citizens being kidnapped. Every new headline leaves another family in pain and another community living in uncertainty.

Democracy is supposed to mean that the lives of citizens matter.

It is supposed to mean safety, justice, accountability, and the freedom to go about your daily activities without constantly looking over your shoulder.

Yet many Nigerians cannot travel freely. Many parents worry when their children leave for school. Many communities sleep with one eye open because insecurity has become a part of everyday life.

That is why Democracy Day feels different for me this year.

I am not in a celebratory mood.

Not because I hate my country. In fact, it is because I love this country that I am concerned.

A nation cannot truly celebrate democracy when its citizens do not feel secure. A nation cannot proudly speak of freedom when people are afraid of being kidnapped on the road, in their schools, or even in their communities.

Democracy is more than elections.

It is more than political campaigns.

It is more than speeches and ceremonies.

Democracy should be reflected in the quality of life of the people. It should be seen in the protection of lives and property. It should be felt in the confidence citizens have that their government can keep them safe.

Today, my thoughts are with every family waiting for a kidnapped loved one to return home. My thoughts are with every teacher who continues to show up despite the risks. My thoughts are with every child whose education has been interrupted by fear and insecurity.

As we mark Democracy Day, perhaps the real question is not whether we should celebrate.

Perhaps the question is whether we have built the kind of democracy that truly serves and protects its people.

Until every Nigerian can live, learn, work, and travel without fear, Democracy Day should be more than a celebration—it should be a reminder of how much work remains to be done.

Happy Democracy Day, Nigeria.

May we one day have a nation where democracy is not only practiced on paper but experienced in the daily lives of every citizen. 🇳🇬