The Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Public Enlightenment (Projects and Policies), Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, has called on Nigerians to remain committed to the nation’s democratic journey, urging citizens not to lose faith in the electoral process despite existing challenges.
Speaking during an interview on Politics HQ on News Central Television, Ifeajika described Nigeria’s democracy as a work in progress that requires patience, active citizen participation and collective commitment to attain its full potential.
He noted that Nigeria’s uninterrupted democratic experience spans only 27 years, a relatively short period when compared to more established democracies around the world, and argued that the country’s democratic institutions should be allowed time to evolve and strengthen.
According to him, although concerns persist regarding electoral credibility, the rule of law and human rights, significant progress has been recorded over the years.
“Our democracy is growing. We are still learning and improving. We may make mistakes along the way, but together, we will correct them and become better. Nigerians must have faith in the system because democracy is a journey,” he said.
Ifeajika warned against voter apathy and political cynicism, stressing that meaningful participation in elections remains critical to deepening democratic governance and ensuring the emergence of credible leadership.
He maintained that citizens play a decisive role in shaping governance through their participation in the electoral process, adding that ongoing electoral reforms and voter education initiatives would further enhance public confidence in democracy.
The governor’s aide also addressed the agitation for the creation of Anioma State, insisting that any successful state creation effort must be driven by the collective aspirations of the people rather than the ambitions of a few political actors.
He said the demand for Anioma State dates back several decades and remains a legitimate aspiration of the people of the area.
Ifeajika, however, emphasized that the proposed state should be created from Delta State and remain within the South-South geopolitical zone, with Asaba serving as its capital.
“The Anioma State we want is one carved out of Delta State and located in the South-South with Asaba as its capital. Being Igbo does not mean we must belong to the South-East. We are Igbos in Delta State and proud members of the South-South region,” he stated.
He dismissed suggestions that former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, opposed the creation of Anioma State, explaining that the former governor had consistently supported the agitation provided it did not alter Delta State’s South-South identity.
Ifeajika cautioned against politicising the state creation campaign, stressing that the constitutional process requires broad-based support from the people and key stakeholders before any proposal can advance to the National Assembly for consideration.
“It must come from the people. You do not impose a state on the people. Everybody must be carried along and agree that they need a state before the process can begin. Once there is genuine consensus, the governor and other stakeholders will naturally support it,” he said.
Reaffirming his optimism about Nigeria’s future, Ifeajika urged citizens to remain hopeful and committed to nation-building, expressing confidence that the country’s democracy would continue to grow stronger through increased public participation and sustained institutional reforms.
