Obi urges aspirants to embrace integrity and self‑less service in 2027

Peter Obi, a former Labour Party presidential candidate, urged individuals seeking elective office in the 2027 general elections to adopt integrity, self‑sacrifice, and a people‑oriented leadership approach.

He said this would help rebuild Nigeria and restore public confidence in governance.

Obi, who is now a chieftain of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), made the appeal during a speech at the Obidient Movement Stakeholders, Aspirants and Kwankwasiyya Movement Summit in Abuja on Saturday.

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

He praised their alignment with the NDC, describing their aspirations as “an act of courage and patriotism” at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

According to Obi, Nigeria needs not more politicians but statesmen and women who will prioritize the public interest over personal gain and greed.

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

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

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

He emphasized the need for national unity, stating that Nigeria will prosper only when competent and credible leaders place the national interest above ethnic and religious considerations.

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

Former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso also spoke, urging Nigerians and emerging leaders to remain committed to justice, national unity, and responsible leadership.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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