Photo: Mr Peter Obi
…Nigerians would reject any electoral process that undermined their constitutional right to freely choose their leaders.
By: Daniel Kanu
The Peter Obi Media Office has warned state governors against alleged attempts to manipulate the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that Nigerians will determine their preferred leaders through credible polls.
The office said any election that failed to meet the standards of being free, fair and transparent would not enjoy the confidence and acceptance of Nigerians.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the spokesman of the Peter Obi Media Office, Idris Zekeri Jnr.
The office said it had become aware of alleged covert moves by some governors to interfere with the democratic process, accusing them of prioritising political survival over the presentation of their records in office.
It described the alleged moves as signs of desperation, saying political leaders should seek electoral mandates through their performance, achievements and service to the people rather than resort to manipulation and intimidation.
The statement urged governors to recognise that political leadership was a privilege earned through service and not an entitlement to be retained through electoral fraud.
“Leadership is a privilege earned through service; it is not a mandate to retain power through deceit, intimidation or interference with the democratic process,” it said.
The media office further argued that Nigerians would reject any electoral process that undermined their constitutional right to freely choose their leaders.
It said the governors should concentrate on convincing voters with their records rather than allegedly putting mechanisms in place to manipulate election outcomes.
The office also expressed confidence in Obi’s electoral prospects, describing the former Anambra State governor as a candidate with the competence, capacity, character and compassion required to address Nigeria’s challenges.
According to the statement, the 2027 general election will be a defining moment for the country, as Nigerians seek to reclaim the political process through their votes.
“Let it be known that no degree of rigging, intimidation or political manoeuvring can permanently silence the will of the people,” it added.
The office maintained that Obi remained the preferred choice of Nigerians, arguing that his leadership credentials offered the country an opportunity to restore its dignity, prosperity and hope.
It urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and defend the integrity of the electoral process, insisting that the ultimate power to determine who governs the country rests with the electorate.
“The mandate rests with the people. Nigeria must function again, and it will be OK,” the statement added.
The 2027 general election is expected to feature intense political competition, with the Independent National Electoral Commission expected to play a central role in ensuring that the exercise is credible and reflects the wishes of voters.
