Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2023 election, has claimed that he was rigged out of the presidential poll and called on Nigerian youths to join him in demanding free, fair and credible elections in 2027.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Sunday, Obi alleged that the results of the 2023 presidential election were manipulated.
“I was rigged out of the 2023 election. The election results were cooked,” Obi said. “I am begging the youth to join me in demanding free, fair and credible election.”
According to the official results of the 2023 presidential election, Obi secured 6,101,533 votes to finish third. Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) won the election with 8,794,726 votes, while Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) came second with 6,984,520 votes.
Obi also urged President Bola Tinubu to strengthen Nigeria's democratic process by ensuring transparent elections in 2027. He said conducting credible polls would serve as an enduring democratic legacy for the President.
“Free, fair and credible election will go as his legacy since he has fought for democracy. This is the time for him to prove his democratic credentials,” he said.
The former governor of Anambra State reiterated that his political ambition is driven by a desire to see Nigeria function effectively rather than a personal quest for power.
“I have said it before, I am not desperate to become President of Nigeria. I am desperate to see Nigeria work. If it is working, I will support whatever makes it work,” Obi stated.
He further pledged his commitment to national unity and inclusive leadership if given the opportunity to serve.
“I will never divide Nigeria. I will unite Nigeria. I will show love to every part of Nigeria and make sure things are done differently, because I am going to involve everybody,” he added.
