Voters Must Trust Election Outcomes For Democracy To Thrive, Says Uzodimma

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, says democracy can only function effectively when citizens trust the outcome of elections.

Speaking on Wednesday at the 2025 All Nigerian Editors Conference in Abuja, Uzodimma stressed that elections are not just about policies or candidates, but about public confidence in the process.

“The reality heading into 2027 is that elections are won and lost not only on policies or candidates but on whether voters believe the outcome will be legitimate,” the governor said. “That belief is shaped by whether they have been hearing fragmented, tribal narratives or cohesive, nation-building ones, and that is an editorial choice you make daily.”

Uzodimma, who also chairs the All Progressives Governors’ Forum, commended Nigerian editors for their role in strengthening democracy and urged them to remain guided by professional ethics in their work.

‘Media Must Build Cohesion, Not Division’

The governor highlighted the crucial role of the media in shaping national unity, saying editors must consciously promote stories that strengthen shared values rather than inflame divisions.

“You report on ethnic tension, regional disparities, and religious conflict — as you should,” Uzodimma said. “But how often do your editorial choices highlight what binds us rather than what divides us?”

He acknowledged the media’s watchdog role but called for more constructive framing of accountability stories.

“You can hold government accountable and still avoid presenting every irregularity as proof that the system is corrupt,” he said. “You can cover political competition and remind citizens that competitors will still govern the same country afterwards.”

See also: Uzodimma Urges Young Nigerians to Actively Shape Democracy, Not Remain Passive

Uzodimma praised Nigerian journalists for producing groundbreaking investigations and amplifying marginalised voices, describing them as “essential to democracy.”

He urged editors to act as catalysts for national cohesion as the country moves toward the 2027 general elections, warning that without trust in the electoral process, democratic governance would remain fragile.