Nigeria must not be ‘Giant of Africa’ that disgraces continent – Peter Obi
Former Presidential Candidate Calls for Electoral Reform in Nigeria
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has urged Nigeria to abandon its status as the “Giant of Africa” and instead strive for exemplary governance. His comments came after the Senate rejected the proposal for real-time electronic transmission of election results.
In a statement shared on his verified social media account on Tuesday, Obi criticized the justifications for the rejection, specifically the claim that certain states lack adequate network coverage. He asserted that such explanations are no longer acceptable.
Obi emphasized the importance of transparency in the electoral process, stating that anyone aspiring to hold public office must adhere to a fair and honorable selection process. He advocated for candidates to provide verifiable educational records from primary through tertiary institutions, in addition to meeting constitutional qualifications such as age.
On February 9, Obi participated in a peaceful protest at the National Assembly, where he called for significant electoral reforms to better reflect the will of the Nigerian populace. He outlined specific demands, underscoring that candidates should not be eligible to lead without having gone through proper procedures. He also insisted that election results should be transmitted electronically and in real time to safeguard democratic integrity and minimize manipulation.
Moreover, Obi drew parallels with the financial sector, noting that institutions across Nigeria operate securely using digital networks for transactions. “If banking systems function seamlessly, our electoral system can and should do the same,” he argued.
He stressed the need for Nigeria to move beyond its current reputation and become a model of governance, emphasizing the obligation to build a nation characterized by order, justice, and trust. Obi encouraged the nation’s youth to remain resolute in their quest for reform.
“I remain firmly committed to the vision of a New Nigeria—one that is not only possible but inevitable if we stand and act together,” he concluded.
