2027: Obi Encourages Candidates to Prioritize Moral Principles and Unwavering Dedication

n n

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has called on aspirants seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections to embrace integrity, sacrifice and people-orientated leadership.

n

This, he said, was in order to rebuild Nigeria and restore public confidence in governance.

n

Obi, now a chieftain of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), made the call in an address at an Obidient Movement Stakeholders, Aspirants and Kwankwasiyya Movement Summit in Abuja on Saturday.

n

Represented by former Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Peter Ameh, Obi congratulated the aspirants for stepping forward to serve the country.

n

He commended them for aligning with NDC, describing their aspirations as “an act of courage and patriotism” at a critical moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

n

According to him, Nigeria does not need more politicians but statesmen and women who will prioritise public interest above personal gains and greed.

n

He urged the aspirants to focus on practical solutions to insecurity, unemployment, inflation, poor infrastructure and healthcare challenges rather than making empty promises.

n

Obi also warned against violence, vote-buying and manipulation of the electoral process, stressing that leadership begins with integrity in the pursuit of power.

n

“The world is watching, and Nigerians are watching. We cannot continue with negative politics that threaten the survival of our country,” he said.

n

He emphasised the need for national unity, saying Nigeria would only prosper when competent and credible leaders placed national interest above ethnic and religious considerations.

n

“If you become president and only trust people from your tribe, then you are not truly the president of Nigeria,” he said.

n

Also speaking, a former governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, called on Nigerians and emerging leaders to remain committed to justice, national unity and responsible leadership.

n

Kwankwaso, represented by a former member of the House of Representatives, Moshood Shittu, said the country’s challenges stemmed largely from the absence of sincere and committed leaders.

n

He expressed confidence in Nigerians and praised the resilience of grassroots supporters and mass movements working for a political change.

n

In his presentation, the National Secretary of NDC, Ikenna Enekweizu, assured party members and aspirants of a free, fair and transparent primary process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

n

He dismissed allegations that the party had compiled a secret list of preferred candidates.

n

Enekweizu described NDC as ‘the fastest growing political party, not just in Nigeria, but in Africa’.

n

“Every political party exists to win elections. If you don’t win elections, you are an NGO, not a political party,” he said.

n

The coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, said supporters of both political leaders believed that a united front would improve their chances in the 2027 polls and strengthen grassroots mobilisation across the country. (NAN)

n n