A former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on aspirants seeking elective positions in the 2027 general elections to embrace integrity, sacrifice and people-oriented leadership. 

This, he said, would help to rebuild Nigeria and restore public confidence in governance.

Mr Obi, now a chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), made the call in an address at an Obidient Movement Stakeholders, Aspirants and Kwankwasiyya Movement summit in Abuja on Saturday.

Represented by the former Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Peter Ameh, Mr Obi congratulated the aspirants on stepping forward to serve the country.

He commended them for aligning with the NDC, describing their aspirations as “an act of courage and patriotism” at a critical moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

According to him, Nigeria does not need more politicians but rather statesmen and women who will prioritise the public interest over personal gain and greed.

He urged the aspirants to focus on practical solutions to insecurity, unemployment, inflation, poor infrastructure and healthcare challenges rather than making empty promises.

Mr Obi also warned against violence, vote-buying and manipulation of the electoral process, stressing that leadership begins with integrity in the pursuit of power.

“The world is watching, and Nigerians are watching. We cannot continue with negative politics that threaten the survival of our country,” he said.

He emphasised the need for national unity, saying Nigeria would only prosper when competent and credible leaders placed national interest above ethnic and religious considerations.

“If you become president and only trust people from your tribe, then you are not truly the president of Nigeria,” he said.

Also speaking, a former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, called on Nigerians and emerging leaders to remain committed to justice, national unity and responsible leadership.

Mr Kwankwaso, represented by former House of Representatives member Moshood Shittu, said the country’s challenges stemmed largely from the absence of sincere and committed leaders.

He expressed confidence in Nigerians and praised the resilience of grassroots supporters and mass movements working for political change.

In his presentation, the National Secretary of the NDC, Ikenna Enekweizu, assured party members and aspirants of a free, fair and transparent primary process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He dismissed allegations that the party had compiled a secret list of preferred candidates.

Mr Enekweizu described the NDC as the fastest-growing political party, not just in Nigeria, but in Africa.

“Every political party exists to win elections. If you don’t win elections, you are an NGO, not a political party,” he said.

Yunusa Tanko, the coordinator of Obidient Movement, said supporters of both political leaders believed that a united front would improve their chances in the 2027 polls and strengthen grassroots mobilisation across the country.

(NAN)