Former presidential candidate and ex-Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has criticized what he described as the growing culture of openly celebrating electoral malpractice in Nigeria’s political space.
Speaking in Enugu State on Wednesday during the formal announcement of his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, Obi expressed deep concern over the direction of the country’s democracy. He warned that attempts to undermine the integrity of the 2027 general elections would be firmly challenged through lawful and legitimate means.
Obi lamented that individuals who once benefited from democratic governance are now actively contributing to its erosion. According to him, some politicians have become willing tools in weakening democracy, either through intimidation, manipulation, or the use of political violence against opponents. He described this trend as dangerous and unacceptable, stressing that Nigerians must not allow such actions to become normalized.
He further decried the fact that electoral fraud is no longer hidden but, in some cases, celebrated openly. Obi emphasized that this development poses a serious threat to the nation’s democratic future and must be confronted decisively within the bounds of the law.
In addition, the former Labour Party presidential candidate called for early and transparent verification of candidates’ academic and professional credentials. He noted that proper screening ahead of elections would help prevent avoidable legal battles and disputes that often distract from governance and undermine public trust in the electoral process.
Meanwhile, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, has dismissed claims suggesting that Obi might consider running as a vice-presidential candidate in the 2027 elections. Speaking during an interview on Arise News, Tanko described such speculation as unfounded.
According to Tanko, Obi’s political ambition is firmly focused on the presidency. He explained that Obi’s extensive engagements and interactions across the globe were driven by a desire to gain knowledge and experience necessary to lead Nigeria as president, not to play a secondary role.
Tanko reiterated that Obi remains committed to his vision of becoming President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, adding that any suggestion to the contrary misrepresents his long-standing political goals.
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