ABUJA — Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, fairness, and mutual respect as the nation marks the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
In her Democracy Day message, the senator urged citizens to reflect on the values that strengthen democratic societies, stressing that humanity and compassion should take precedence over ethnic, tribal, and other divisive considerations.
Drawing a lesson from a recent FIFA football match involving Mexico and South Africa, Akpoti-Uduaghan observed that many Africans openly supported Mexico, a development she said underscored a broader truth about human relationships and social cohesion.
According to her, people naturally align with individuals, groups, or nations that treat them with dignity and respect, regardless of differences in race, nationality, tribe, or geographical location.
“Beyond football banter, it revealed a deeper truth: people will often stand with those who treat them with dignity, regardless of race, tribe, nationality, or geography,” she said.
The lawmaker noted that democracy is founded on the principles of fairness, justice, equality, and shared humanity, adding that the success of any democratic system depends on the willingness of citizens to rise above narrow identities and embrace common values.
She emphasized that Nigeria’s strength lies not in ethnic or political divisions but in the collective ability of its people to coexist peacefully and treat one another with compassion and dignity.
“Democracy thrives when we rise above narrow identities and embrace fairness, justice, mutual respect, and shared humanity,” Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.
The senator further urged Nigerians to use the occasion of Democracy Day to renew their commitment to national unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
“Whether in politics, community life, or international relations, our greatest strength lies not in tribal loyalty but in our ability to treat one another with compassion and dignity,” she added.
Akpoti-Uduaghan called on citizens to choose humanity over prejudice, unity over division, and brotherhood over exclusion as Nigeria continues its democratic journey.
She congratulated Nigerians on Democracy Day and expressed hope for a more united, inclusive, and prosperous nation.
