As Nigeria marks this year’s Democracy Day, former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch, Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe, SAN, FCIArb(UK), has issued a passionate call for a more authentic democratic culture in the country.
In a reflective message commemorating June 12, Akangbe emphasized that democracy must go beyond symbolic celebrations to become a lived reality rooted in justice, integrity, and the true will of the people.
Highlighting persistent flaws in Nigeria’s electoral process, the respected Senior Advocate lamented the frequent reliance on courts to determine election outcomes—tasks that, in his view, should be resolved at the ballot box. He urged Nigerians to reject desperation and instead embrace values that secure a better future for the nation’s youth. “Let us make democracy real—together,” Akangbe declared, calling for collective responsibility in safeguarding the nation’s democratic promise.
Read full statement below;
On this June12, we honour democracy—not just as an idea, but as a promise. A promise that every voice matters. That every vote counts. That power belongs not to a privileged few, but to the people.
But we must tell ourselves the truth. Too often, our elections do not reflect the will of the people. Too often, the courts are forced to do what ballots should have done.
This is not only unfair—it is unjust!
We owe our children and youths a better Nigeria. One where democracy is not ceremonial , but a culture . Let us choose integrity over desperation.
Let us make democracy real—together.
Happy Democracy day.
Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe, SAN, FCIArb(UK) Former Chairman, NBA Lagos Branch
#June12 #DemocracyDay #LOA #ElevateTheBar
