Former DG Governors Forum Earl Osaro Onaiwu has called on Nigerian governors to rise immediately in defence of Nigeria’s democracy as insecurity and political instability continue to shake the nation.
He warned that Nigeria is approaching a dangerous point where silence and inaction will come at a cost the country cannot afford.
Onaiwu described the situation as a defining moment for the nation. “Our democracy is still building. It is fragile and under pressure. If our leaders fail to defend it now, we may lose the foundation we have struggled for since 1999,” he stated.
He stressed that the responsibility before the governors goes far beyond party affiliations. According to him, Nigeria’s survival must take priority over every political interest. “This is not about party. This is not about personal loyalty. This is about saving our country. Nigeria is bigger than every ambition and every political calculation,” he said.
Onaiwu called on the governors to work together as a united front, engage federal security agencies decisively, and show moral courage in confronting the rising wave of insecurity. He noted that the people are living in fear and expect their leaders to act with urgency. “Lives are being lost, communities are under attack, and citizens are afraid. The people need to see that their leaders are standing for them and standing for this country.”
He added that Nigeria can only achieve peace, stability, and prosperity when political leaders place national interest above all else. He said the future of the country depends on the choices made today.
Onaiwu also turned his attention to the judiciary and the legislative arm, urging them to rise to their constitutional responsibilities. He cautioned that their silence or weakness at a time like this would be a betrayal of the nation. “The judiciary must stand firm. The legislature must stand firm. These institutions cannot look away. History will not forgive them if they fail to defend justice, democracy, and the rule of law.”
He concluded with a final appeal to all leaders who have taken an oath to serve Nigeria. “This is a call to conscience. This is a call to duty. We must save our democracy. We must save our country. The time to act is now.”
