Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has warned against electoral manipulation ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring that his party will resist any attempt to undermine the will of voters.
Obi issued the warning on Monday during a dinner in Abuja organised to present certificates of return to the NDC’s candidates for the forthcoming elections.
The former Anambra State governor called for free, fair and credible polls, cautioning political actors against attempting to manipulate the electoral process.
“Let it be known that if anybody rigs 2027, we will rig him. We want a free, fair and credible election. Don’t give anybody an excuse,” Obi said.
He added that Nigeria needed to work and that citizens should be able to take pride in their country.
Obi Criticises Tinubu’s Leadership
During his address, Obi also criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of failing to demonstrate the competence, commitment and compassion required to address Nigeria’s challenges.
He argued that the country needed new leadership capable of responding effectively to insecurity, economic hardship and other pressing national concerns.
According to Obi, Nigerians are looking for a change and deserve a president who will be readily available to attend to the country’s needs.
He also questioned Tinubu’s capacity to handle the demands of the presidency, insisting that Nigeria required a leader who could devote sufficient energy and attention to governance.
Opposition Supporters Warned Against Intimidation
Obi further condemned the alleged harassment of NDC supporters and other Nigerians, warning that his preference for peaceful conduct should not be mistaken for weakness.
He urged party members to campaign across the country while calling on political opponents to allow them to exercise their democratic rights without intimidation.
“Humility is not weakness. It is a virtue. Good behaviour is not weakness. Nobody has a monopoly on rascality,” he said.
The NDC presidential candidate also promised to visit states and senatorial districts across the country as part of his campaign activities ahead of the election.
2027 Election Credibility in Focus
Obi’s remarks come amid growing political debate over the credibility of the 2027 general elections, with opposition figures calling for stronger safeguards against vote manipulation and intimidation.
His warning has placed electoral integrity back at the centre of the political conversation, as parties begin preparations for the contest.
While Obi insists that Nigerians must be allowed to determine their leaders through credible elections, the challenge ahead will be ensuring that concerns about electoral malpractice are addressed through lawful and transparent processes.
