By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The Renaissance Care and Empowerment Foundation (RECEF) has called for strengthened democratic governance in Nigeria, urging greater respect for press freedom and an end to alleged security agency overreach.
In a statement marking the June 12 Democracy Day celebration, the Executive Director of RECEF, Ambassador Idris Ozovehe Muraina, said Nigerians must continue to safeguard democratic values while pushing for improved governance and accountability.
Muraina noted that although Nigeria has made progress since returning to democratic rule, the nation still faces significant economic hardship and persistent security challenges that demand urgent and sustained attention.
“As we mark this historic day, Nigeria undeniably stands at a critical crossroads,” he said, adding that citizens continue to grapple with difficult socio-economic conditions alongside security concerns in several parts of the country.
He commended the resilience of Nigerians and their continued commitment to democracy, but stressed that government efforts so far have not fully met public expectations.
According to him, there is a need for more aggressive, people-centred economic policies and a stronger security framework capable of delivering tangible democratic dividends.
Muraina also condemned the arrest and detention of a Kogi-based journalist, describing the incident as an infringement on democratic principles and press freedom.
He said the arrest of Mr Opeyemi Owoeye, Editor of Kogi Report, by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kogi State, less than 24 hours to Democracy Day, was troubling and avoidable.
He argued that democracy cannot thrive in an environment where journalists are intimidated or civic space is restricted, urging security agencies to focus on their core mandate of protecting lives and property.
Muraina further advised that grievances against media reports should be addressed through legal channels rather than the use of security agencies to silence or harass journalists.
The foundation called on the Commandant General of the NSCDC to investigate the incident and ensure accountability where necessary.
It reaffirmed that press freedom, rule of law, and institutional accountability remain essential pillars of democracy and must be protected to ensure Nigeria’s democratic progress.