Summary
Peter Obi says Nigerians have the power to ensure credible elections in 2027.
He warns that rising poverty and hunger are worsening the country's situation.
Obi urges citizens to demand accountability and protect the value of their votes.
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, Peter Obi, has said the credibility of the next election will depend largely on Nigerians and not only on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Read Original
Obi made the remarks on Friday while speaking with journalists after attending the burial of the late Pa Simon Okorie Abaa, father of NDC Ebonyi South senatorial candidate, Chief Linus Okorie. The funeral service was held at Isiama Primary School in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
Speaking on the 2027 polls, the former Anambra State governor said the determination of citizens to defend their votes would shape the actions of the electoral commission.
"It is not about confidence in INEC. Do I still have confidence in the people? Because it is the people that will determine what INEC will do. If the people insist that their votes will count, their votes will count," Obi said.
He urged Nigerians to reflect on the country's current situation and consider the future of younger generations, saying those calling for change are making significant sacrifices.
"It is for Nigerians to look at what is happening in the country today and ask themselves what the future holds for our children in this enterprise called Nigeria. Are we going to continue in this direction?" he said.
Obi also expressed concern over the country's economic challenges, stating that poverty and hunger continue to rise across many communities.
"Every day poverty is increasing. Every day hunger is increasing. You don't even need World Bank reports to know this because you can see it in the villages," he said.
He added that reports indicating millions of Nigerians are experiencing acute hunger should prompt urgent action.
Reacting to concerns about possible intimidation of opposition supporters during the election period, Obi said many Nigerians are already facing hardship due to the country's economic conditions.
"For me, every Nigerian is already being harassed by hunger. People are being harassed by the worsening situation in the country. Everybody is affected. It is time for Nigerians to tell those who are harassing us that enough is enough," he said.
Obi also spoke about his relationship with Chief Linus Okorie, describing it as long-standing. He noted that they had previously worked together in the Labour Party before moving to the NDC.
Offering condolences to the bereaved family, Obi prayed for the peaceful repose of the late Pa Simon Okorie Abaa and asked God to grant his family the strength to bear the loss.
