Peter Obi: Nigeria Must End Electoral Disgrace and Lead by Example in Africa

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has urged Nigeria to stop being the “Giant of Africa” that brings shame to the continent, calling for urgent reforms to the country’s electoral system.

Obi made the statement on his verified X account on Tuesday while responding to the Senate’s rejection of real-time electronic transmission of election results.

“Claims that certain states lack network coverage are no longer acceptable. Anyone seeking public office must emerge through a transparent and honourable process,” he said.

Advocating Transparent Elections

The former Anambra governor emphasized that aspirants for political office must provide verifiable records of their primary, secondary, and tertiary education, and meet all other constitutional requirements, including age and qualifications.

Obi highlighted the importance of public scrutiny, open campaigns, debates, and electronic transmission of results to protect voters’ mandates and prevent manipulation.

“Financial institutions operate nationwide through secure digital networks to conduct transactions and collect taxes daily. If banking systems function seamlessly, our electoral system can and should do the same,” he added.

Youth Engagement and a New Vision for Nigeria

Obi also praised the large turnout of young Nigerians at a peaceful protest at the National Assembly on February 9, calling on them to remain steadfast in pushing for electoral reforms.

“Nigeria must stop being a so-called Giant of Africa that disgraces the continent and instead become a beacon of exemplary governance, beginning with credible elections. We owe the younger generation a nation built on order, justice, and trust—not chaos and impunity,” he said.

He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to a “New Nigeria,” a vision he described as achievable if citizens unite and act together to demand transparency and accountability.