The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, for the 2027 general election, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians to take responsibility for ensuring credible elections, saying the outcome of future polls will depend largely on the resolve of the electorate.
Obi made the remarks on Friday while speaking with journalists after attending the funeral service of Pa Simon Okorie Abaa, father of the party’s Ebonyi South senatorial candidate, Chief Linus Okorie. The service was held at Isiama Primary School in Onicha Igboeze, Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
Speaking on preparations for the 2027 general election, the former Anambra State governor said his confidence rests more in the determination of Nigerians than in the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
According to him, if citizens insist that their votes must count, the electoral commission will have no choice but to respect the will of the people.
Obi urged Nigerians to reflect on the country’s current condition and consider the future they want for the next generation, arguing that meaningful change requires sacrifice and collective commitment.
He also expressed concern over the nation’s economic challenges, saying poverty and hunger have continued to worsen across the country.
According to Obi, the growing hardship is evident in communities across Nigeria and does not require international reports to confirm.
He referenced reports indicating that about 70 million Nigerians are facing acute hunger, stressing that the country cannot continue on its current path.
Responding to concerns that opposition supporters could face intimidation during the elections, Obi said the economic realities confronting Nigerians amount to a greater form of hardship.
He maintained that citizens are already suffering from hunger and declining living conditions, adding that the time has come for Nigerians to reject policies and actions that continue to deepen their difficulties.
Obi also paid tribute to the late Pa Simon Okorie Abaa, describing his relationship with Chief Linus Okorie as longstanding.
He recalled that they had previously worked together in the Labour Party before joining the Nigeria Democratic Congress and prayed for God to grant the deceased eternal rest while giving his family the strength to bear the loss.
