By Emma Peter
Presidential candidate of the New Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians to remain resolute in the struggle for credible elections, saying he is prepared to stand with citizens determined to protect their votes in the 2027 general elections.
Obi spoke on Thursday during a town hall meeting with supporters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he called on Nigerians to become more actively involved in the political process ahead of the election.
The former Anambra State governor said the credibility of the 2027 election would depend not only on political candidates but also on the willingness of citizens to participate and insist that their votes are respected.
He cautioned his supporters against fear or intimidation, declaring that he would not abandon Nigerians who are prepared to defend the democratic process.
Obi acknowledged the possibility of attempts to manipulate the electoral process but expressed confidence that Nigerians were now better positioned to resist such practices.
He urged citizens to attend campaign activities, engage political leaders and use legitimate democratic avenues to demand accountability from those seeking political office.
According to Obi, many of the difficulties confronting the country are connected to the quality of leadership and the choices Nigerians make during elections.
He particularly criticised the state of the country’s refining sector, arguing that persistent challenges in critical areas of the economy reflect deeper problems of governance and leadership.
Obi maintained that Nigerians must look beyond political rhetoric and demand leaders capable of addressing economic hardship, insecurity and other challenges affecting households across the country.
He further called for greater collective action, stressing that meaningful change would require citizens to participate actively rather than leave the responsibility of determining the country’s future solely to politicians.
His comments come as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum, with political parties and prospective candidates stepping up consultations, mobilisation and engagement with voters across the country.
