Mr Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has urged Nigerian editors to scrutinise the qualifications and past records of politicians seeking public office ahead of elections.

Obi made the call on Friday at the 22nd All Nigeria Editors Conference of the Nigerian Guild of Editors in Enugu State.

The conference, themed “The Ballot, The Media and the Task of Keeping Democracy Alive,” brought together editors and other stakeholders to discuss the role of the media in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process.

Obi said editors had an important responsibility to provide citizens with accurate information about candidates and hold politicians accountable for their actions.

He urged the media to investigate the records of political candidates, including their qualifications, previous conduct and performance in public office.

“Editors must continue to scrutinise the qualifications and past records of those seeking public office, expose past wrongdoings and ensure that the Nigerian people have access to the information they need to make informed decisions,” he said.

The former Anambra State governor also called on editors to demand higher standards from politicians and ensure that people occupying leadership positions reflected the values expected in public service.

He said the media should continue to serve as a safeguard for democracy by investigating political actors and presenting relevant information to the public.

Obi said his participation in the conference also provided an opportunity to interact with editors during a question-and-answer session and hear their views on the state of democracy and the media’s role in the country.

He thanked the Nigerian Guild of Editors for inviting him to the conference and wished the organisers a successful event.