Democracy Day 2026: Dr. Oke Urges Nigerians To Prioritise Love, Unity, Humanity Over Politics

‎As Nigerians across the nation commemorate the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, the Integrity Group of Nigeria (The Renewed Hope Agenda Ambassadors) joins millions of patriotic citizens in celebrating the enduring spirit of democracy, national unity, and the collective aspirations of our people for a better and more prosperous nation.
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‎Speaking on behalf of the organization, the Director-General/National Convener of the Integrity Group of Nigeria, Dr. Oke Idawene, GCA, congratulated Nigerians on this historic occasion and called on citizens from all walks of life to embrace peace, tolerance, mutual understanding, and genuine love for one another irrespective of political, ethnic, religious, or social differences.
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‎According to Dr. Idawene, Democracy Day serves as a reminder that the strength of Nigeria lies not only in its democratic institutions but also in the unity, compassion, and shared humanity of its people.
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‎”Today, as we celebrate the triumph of democracy and the sacrifices of our national heroes who fought tirelessly for democratic governance, I urge all Nigerians to continue to live together in peace, love, and harmony. We must remember that nation-building is a collective responsibility, and our diversity should remain our strength rather than a source of division.”
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‎The National Convener further appealed to political actors across the country to desist from actions capable of endangering lives or creating unnecessary tension within the polity. He stressed that political competition should never supersede the sanctity of human life.
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‎Reacting to the recent incident involving children in Oyo State, Dr. Idawene expressed deep concern and maintained that the welfare and safety of innocent citizens, especially children, must never become subjects of political manipulation or rivalry.

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‎”Politics should never be played with human lives. No political ambition, no matter how noble it may appear, is worth the pain, trauma, or suffering of innocent citizens. The lives of our children must remain sacred and protected at all times.”
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‎He continued:
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‎”Today, being Democracy Day, I use this medium to passionately call on every individual, group, or interest involved in the situation concerning the Oyo State children to ensure their immediate and safe return. Before political offices, we are all human beings, and after political contests and opposition, we will all return to being ordinary citizens. Therefore, humanity must always come before politics.”
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‎Dr. Idawene further emphasized that democracy thrives where justice, compassion, accountability, and respect for human dignity are upheld. He called on leaders at all levels to prioritize the welfare of the people and remain committed to policies and actions that promote national cohesion and sustainable development.
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‎The Integrity Group of Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen democracy, promote good governance, foster national unity, and advance the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda for the benefit of all Nigerians.
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‎As the nation marks another Democracy Day, the organization encourages citizens to remain hopeful, law-abiding, and steadfast in their belief that a united Nigeria can overcome every challenge and achieve greater heights.
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‎Happy Democracy Day, Nigeria.