The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called for free, fair and credible elections in 2027, insisting that Nigerians must be allowed to freely choose their leaders.
Obi made the call in a statement posted on his X account on Friday, with particular emphasis on the need for the votes of Rivers State residents to count in the next general election.
The former Anambra State governor spoke after a town hall meeting held in Port Harcourt on Thursday, where he was received by the NDC governorship candidate in Rivers State, Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, alongside other party leaders and supporters.
The meeting, organised as part of the NDC Obi-Talks, provided an opportunity for Obi to interact with residents and respond to questions on issues affecting Nigerians, including employment, healthcare, education, security and economic opportunities.
Obi said he observed a strong determination among Rivers residents to participate in the 2027 elections and ensure that their votes translate into the choice of leaders.
According to him, the electoral process must reflect the wishes of the people and guarantee that every valid vote is counted.
“Let it be recorded that this time around, the people of Rivers State will vote, and their votes MUST count,” Obi declared.
He further urged Rivers State to lead by example by ensuring that the 2027 elections are conducted transparently and credibly.
“Only leaders who emerge from a free, fair, and credible electoral process can truly be called Excellencies. Rivers State can and should set the pace for excellent, free, fair, and credible elections in 2027,” he said.
Obi also reiterated his commitment to prioritising education, healthcare and poverty reduction, describing the three areas as critical to accelerating national development.
He maintained that his broader political objective remained focused on rebuilding Nigeria’s institutions, improving the welfare of citizens and restoring hope across the country.
The NDC presidential candidate expressed appreciation to the party’s vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Lulu-Briggs and his campaign team, the Rivers State Working Committee, as well as the party’s National Working Committee led by National Chairman Senator Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe.
Obi said he remained committed to what he described as the task of “rescuing Nigeria, rebuilding our institutions, and restoring hope to our people.”
