Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged politicians seeking elective positions in the 2027 general elections to embrace integrity, sacrifice and selfless leadership in order to rebuild Nigeria and restore public confidence in governance.
Obi, who is now a chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), made the call on Saturday during the Obidient Movement Stakeholders, Aspirants and Kwankwasiyya Movement Summit held in Abuja.
Represented by former Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Peter Ameh, Obi congratulated the aspirants for stepping forward to contest elective offices, describing their decision as an act of courage and patriotism at a crucial period in the country’s democratic journey.
According to him, Nigeria is in dire need of leaders who will place national interest above personal ambition and greed.
“Nigeria does not need more politicians but statesmen and women who will prioritise public interest above personal gains and greed,” he said.
Obi charged the aspirants to focus on practical solutions to the country’s growing challenges, including insecurity, unemployment, inflation, poor infrastructure and the declining healthcare system, rather than relying on empty political promises.
He also warned politicians against engaging in electoral violence, vote-buying and manipulation of the democratic process, insisting that genuine leadership begins with integrity and transparency in the pursuit of power.
“The world is watching and Nigerians are watching. We cannot continue with negative politics that threatens the survival of our country,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor stressed the importance of national unity and inclusive governance, noting that Nigeria can only move forward when leaders rise above ethnic and religious sentiments.
“If you become president and only trust people from your tribe, then you are not truly the president of Nigeria,” he added.
Also speaking at the summit, former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, called on Nigerians and emerging political leaders to remain committed to justice, responsible leadership and national unity.
Kwankwaso, who was represented by former House of Representatives member, Moshood Shittu, said many of the country’s challenges were caused by the absence of sincere and committed leaders.
He, however, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future and commended grassroots supporters and political movements working towards national transformation ahead of the 2027 elections.
In his remarks, the National Secretary of the NDC, Ikenna Enekweizu, assured party members and aspirants that the party would conduct a transparent, free and credible primary election process.
Enekweizu dismissed allegations that the party had compiled a secret list of preferred candidates, insisting that every aspirant would be given a fair opportunity.
According to him, the NDC has continued to witness rapid growth across the country.
“Every political party exists to win elections. If you don’t win elections, you are an NGO, not a political party,” he said.
The Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, said supporters of both Obi and Kwankwaso believe that a united political front would strengthen grassroots mobilisation and improve their chances in the 2027 general elections.
