‘Don’t Complain When Nigerians Demand Results’ — Uzodimma

Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has urged political office holders to accept public scrutiny and demands for better governance, saying those who seek the authority to govern must also accept the responsibility that comes with it.

Uzodimma made the remarks in his Independence Day message on October 1, 2026, as Nigeria marked its 66th Independence Anniversary. He acknowledged the economic pressures confronting households and businesses and said citizens were entitled to demand improved living conditions from their leaders.

‘We Cannot Ask for Authority and Complain About Results’

The governor said politicians who voluntarily seek public office should not be surprised when citizens demand measurable results.

He argued that the mandate given by voters creates an obligation for elected officials to serve the public and respond to shortcomings in governance.

Uzodimma said:

“Those of us in political leadership cannot ask for the authority to govern and then complain when the people demand results from us.”

He added that Nigerians' expectations for better living conditions were legitimate and should be taken seriously by those entrusted with public responsibilities.

Economic Pressure on Nigerians

The Imo governor also recognised the difficulties faced by Nigerians amid recent economic adjustments.

According to his Independence Day message, families are being forced to make difficult choices, while young Nigerians are seeking greater opportunities and communities are demanding improvements in public services.

Uzodimma said governments should remain sensitive to these realities and continue efforts aimed at easing economic pressures while creating conditions for longer-term growth.

‘Nigeria Has Not Failed’

While acknowledging the country's challenges, Uzodimma cautioned against defining Nigeria entirely by its current difficulties.

He said Nigerians possess the capacity to overcome setbacks, innovate and build, arguing that confronting the country's failures should not lead to the conclusion that the Nigerian project itself has failed.

The governor also called for greater individual and collective responsibility in nation-building.

According to him, patriotism should extend beyond displaying emotional attachment to Nigeria, singing the national anthem or celebrating the country's achievements. He said building a nation ultimately requires citizens to participate actively and responsibly.

A Message on Leadership and Accountability

Uzodimma's Independence Day remarks placed government accountability alongside citizens' responsibilities.

His comments come as political leaders across Nigeria issued messages marking the country's 66th anniversary, with several focusing on economic challenges, governance, democracy and the responsibilities of citizens and public officials.

The broader Independence Day discussion has also included calls for political participation and accountability ahead of another electoral season. Former President Goodluck Jonathan, for example, urged Nigerians to prioritise peace, unity and justice as the country approaches the next electoral cycle.

For Uzodimma, however, the central message was that public office comes with an obligation to deliver—and that citizens should be able to demand results from those they have entrusted with political power.

Source: Vanguard News