By Christy Aboghe
A former Delta State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, now Board Chairman of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Hon. Chief (Barr.) Andrew Orugbo, has offered a striking perspective on the nature of democracy, warning against the dangers of civilian dictatorship.
The distinguished lawyer, politician and community leader made this known during a candid conversation with The Pointer in Asaba,
“Democracy remains the best form of government,” Orugbo said, emphasizing that the system’s strength lies in the power it gives to the people.
He said democracy ensured that power resides in the people, and it gives the people the right to choose their representatives. “That is democracy.”
He cautioned against practices that undermine the core principles of democratic governance. “Democracy is not imposition or dictatorship. It is dictatorship in the name of consensus in anything that will deprive the people the right to choose,” Orugbo stressed.
While calling for vigilance, he advised citizens to be “very careful in driving our democracy” to prevent its collapse, noting the shared consequences of failure.
“Even if democracy fails, all of us will suffer the consequences. We should not allow democracy to fail,” he said.
Orugbo concluded by extending his advice globally, stating that the lessons of protecting democratic values apply universally, including in the United States.
