Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), has declared that his political camp will not allow electoral manipulation to determine the outcome of the 2027 general elections, insisting that anyone who attempts to rig the polls will face resistance.
Obi made the declaration during an NDC town hall meeting in Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, where he outlined his political vision, promised electoral reforms and addressed issues surrounding governance, corruption, education and national development.
The former Anambra State governor said his administration, if elected, would prioritise the rule of law and ensure that electoral offenders and individuals who abuse public office are held accountable.
His remarks come as political activities and preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to attract attention across the country.
Speaking before party members and supporters, Obi stressed that Nigeria needed an electoral system where every vote counted and no individual could manipulate the democratic process without consequences.
Peter Obi Declares War on Electoral Manipulation Ahead of 2027
Addressing supporters at the town hall meeting, Obi made a strong statement about his determination to confront individuals who attempt to manipulate election results.
He assured Nigerians that his political camp would not remain passive in the face of electoral malpractice, using the phrase that his team would “rig those who rig” the 2027 elections.
According to the presidential candidate, his approach would involve ensuring that those who attempt to undermine the electoral process are prevented from succeeding.
Obi said:
“Let me assure you, number one, this coming election, we will rig those who rig it.”
He further explained that his commitment to electoral integrity would be supported by strict enforcement of the rule of law.
The former governor maintained that nobody should enjoy special privileges or escape accountability because of their political influence, financial position or public office.
He said Nigeria must become a country where everyone, from the highest-ranking public official to ordinary citizens, is subject to the same laws.
“Under my watch, Nigeria must be a country that has a law and votes from number one person to the last person must obey the rule of law. Nobody will be above the law. Nobody will behave rascally,” Obi stated.
He also promised that, if elected president, his administration would strengthen the country’s electoral institutions and introduce measures to prevent election manipulation.
According to him, nobody should be allowed to interfere with the democratic process or undermine the will of voters without facing appropriate consequences.
He concluded his remarks on the issue by declaring:
“And let me assure you, number two, if elected the president of Nigeria, nobody will rig the election in this country again.”
Obi Promises Stronger Electoral Institutions and Accountability
Beyond his remarks about the 2027 elections, Obi emphasised the need to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions and restore public confidence in the electoral process.
He maintained that credible elections were essential for building a government that genuinely represents the interests and aspirations of the people.
His position, as outlined at the meeting, was that electoral manipulation should not be treated as an ordinary political disagreement but as an offence that requires accountability.
The NDC candidate also stressed that the rule of law must apply equally to everyone, regardless of political affiliation or position in government.
His comments placed electoral integrity among the major issues he intends to address as part of his political agenda ahead of the next presidential election.
Peter Obi Questions Tinubu Over Fuel Subsidy Removal
Obi also turned his attention to Nigeria’s fuel subsidy policy, questioning the management of the resources generated following the removal of the subsidy under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
According to the former Anambra governor, the major problem associated with the subsidy regime was not necessarily the policy itself but the corruption surrounding its implementation.
He argued that corruption had undermined the effectiveness of the system and contributed to the difficulties associated with managing public resources.
Obi challenged President Tinubu to provide Nigerians with a comprehensive account of the money generated from fuel subsidy removal since May 29, 2023, when the current administration assumed office.
He maintained that Nigerians deserved transparency regarding the financial benefits of the policy and how the resources had been utilised.
His demand reflects his broader emphasis on accountability, responsible management of public funds and transparency in government.
For Obi, explaining how public resources are generated and spent should be an important responsibility of any administration seeking the trust of citizens.
Obi Criticises Tinubu’s Foreign Trips
The NDC presidential candidate also criticised President Tinubu’s frequent international travels, raising questions about the frequency of the President’s trips outside Nigeria.
Obi alleged that Tinubu had travelled abroad more frequently than any other Nigerian president.
Although the allegation was presented as part of his political criticism of the current administration, Obi used the issue to reinforce his concerns about leadership priorities and governance.
His comments formed part of a wider discussion about the responsibilities of public office holders and the need for government leaders to remain focused on addressing the country’s domestic challenges.
The former governor has consistently placed governance, public accountability and effective use of national resources among the issues highlighted in his political engagements.
Education to Remain a Major Priority Under Obi’s Proposed Government
Education also featured prominently in Obi’s address, with the presidential candidate promising to place the sector at the centre of his administration’s national development agenda.
He said his government would focus on expanding access to education, improving the quality of learning and promoting skills acquisition among young Nigerians.
According to him, investing in education is essential to preparing the country’s younger population for economic opportunities and national development.
His proposed approach would place emphasis not only on increasing access to schools and educational institutions but also on ensuring that students acquire relevant knowledge and practical skills.
The NDC candidate’s remarks highlighted the importance of developing a workforce capable of responding to changing economic demands.
He also underscored the need to create opportunities that would allow young Nigerians to participate more effectively in the country’s social and economic development.
Peter Obi Promises Inclusive Government for Persons With Disabilities
Another important issue raised during the town hall meeting was the inclusion of persons with disabilities in governance and national development.
Obi promised that his proposed administration would ensure that people living with disabilities were not marginalised or excluded from opportunities available to other Nigerians.
He said his government would promote equal opportunities and encourage meaningful participation by persons with disabilities in governance and economic activities.
The pledge reflects his stated intention to pursue an inclusive approach to leadership, where citizens are given opportunities to contribute to national development regardless of their physical circumstances.
Such an approach would also involve recognising the importance of creating an environment in which people with disabilities can participate in public life and access essential opportunities.
Improved Infrastructure and Basic Amenities Among Obi’s Promises
Obi also reiterated his commitment to improving access to essential public services and basic infrastructure if elected president.
He identified the provision of basic amenities as an important part of improving citizens’ welfare and overall living standards.
According to the former Anambra governor, Nigerians deserve access to essential services and infrastructure that can support their daily activities and improve their quality of life.
His remarks formed part of a broader development agenda that places emphasis on education, accountable leadership, economic opportunities and improved public services.
The candidate maintained that effective governance should translate into practical improvements in the lives of ordinary Nigerians rather than remain limited to political promises.
NDC Chairman Welcomes Obi and Party Leaders to Nasarawa
Earlier at the event, the NDC Chairman in Nasarawa State, Dogo Shammah, welcomed Peter Obi, his running mate, Dr Musa Rabiu Kwankwaso, and other party leaders to the state.
Shammah expressed appreciation to party supporters for attending the town hall meeting, describing the gathering as an important opportunity for the party to interact directly with residents and communicate its political vision.
He noted that the forum provided an avenue for party leaders to engage with supporters, listen to their concerns and explain the direction the party hopes to pursue ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Nasarawa State chairman also called for greater unity, commitment and cooperation among party members.
He urged supporters to remain united and work collectively as the NDC continues preparations for the forthcoming electoral contest.
2027 Elections: Obi Outlines His Priorities for Nigeria
Obi’s appearance in Akwanga provided an opportunity to present several issues he says would shape his proposed administration if elected president.
From electoral reforms and the enforcement of the rule of law to education, public accountability, disability inclusion and improved infrastructure, the former Anambra governor outlined a broad range of priorities.
His strongest remarks centred on preventing electoral manipulation, with a promise to ensure that the outcome of future elections reflects the genuine choices of voters.
He also challenged the Tinubu administration to account for revenue generated from fuel subsidy removal and questioned the frequency of the President’s foreign travels.
As political preparations for 2027 continue, Obi’s statements in Nasarawa add to the growing political debate over electoral credibility, economic management and the future direction of Nigeria.
Whether these promises translate into specific policies and measurable commitments will remain an important issue for voters as the country approaches the next general elections.
