Obi Demands Credible 2027 Polls, Urges Nigerians to Reject Violent Politicians

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Mr Peter Obi, has called for peaceful and issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging politicians to conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the offices they seek.

Obi made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the National Peace Accord signing ceremony organised by the National Peace Committee in partnership with The Kukah Centre.

He expressed concern over election-related deaths and urged Nigerians to ensure that no citizen loses their life because of an electoral contest.

The former Anambra State governor said politicians seeking public office should not need to be compelled through a peace accord to behave responsibly.

“We have a peaceful, issue-based campaign. We must, for the sake of this country, ensure that our conduct reflects the office we’re seeking, our behaviour. We must do the right thing and campaign on issues that Nigerians are going through today,” he said.

Obi also called for the proper remembrance of people who died during the recent Osun State governorship election, urging political actors to console their families and work to prevent future election-related deaths.

He said politicians should demonstrate the values expected of the offices they seek, noting that political leaders could not demand to be addressed as “His Excellency” while failing to exhibit excellence in their conduct.

On the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process, Obi said he remained committed to participating because he wanted to change the system.

“Because I want to change the process, I have to go through it, so I have to believe in it,” he said.

He called for an electoral process that would allow Nigerians to freely choose their leaders through their votes.

Asked about his greatest concern ahead of the 2027 election, Obi said, “For the sake of the children of Nigeria, can we have an election where people’s vote will count?”

On proposed sanctions for candidates or political parties that violate the National Peace Accord, he said the ultimate punishment should come from voters.

“Well, the punishment is that Nigerians should not vote for them,” he said.

Obi’s comments come as political parties and prospective presidential candidates intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, with the economy, insecurity, unemployment, cost of living and electoral credibility expected to feature prominently in campaigns.