Peter Obi has called on Nigeria’s political leaders to prioritise addressing the country’s pressing security and economic challenges over partisan politics, arguing that the nation’s current circumstances demand urgent and decisive leadership.
In a statement released after completing his nomination forms with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Obi reflected on questions contained in the nomination documents, saying they prompted broader concerns about leadership, accountability, and governance.
He noted that one section of the form asks candidates whether they have ever been adjudged to be of unsound mind, stating that the question led him to consider whether Nigeria’s political leadership is demonstrating the judgment expected in the face of the country’s mounting challenges.
According to Obi, widespread insecurity, kidnappings, attacks on communities, food insecurity, and allegations of wasteful public expenditure should be treated as national emergencies requiring the full attention of government.
He argued that a responsible leadership would immediately mobilise security agencies, experts, community leaders, and other relevant institutions to confront these challenges with urgency, stressing that the survival, security, and stability of Nigeria should take precedence over political calculations.
Obi also highlighted another question in the INEC nomination form concerning the submission of forged certificates by candidates. He proposed that, in the interest of transparency and strengthening public confidence in the electoral process, INEC should make the academic certificates and credentials submitted by all candidates seeking elective office publicly available.
According to him, greater transparency in the verification of candidates’ qualifications would enhance public trust in Nigeria’s democratic process and reinforce accountability among those seeking public office.
The former Anambra governor further stated that Nigeria’s current challenges require leadership anchored on competence, character, capacity, compassion, and commitment to public service rather than politics driven by partisan interests.
Obi concluded by reiterating his belief that Nigeria can overcome its current challenges through accountable leadership, institutional reforms, and a renewed commitment to national development, maintaining his long-standing message that “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
