Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi has called for unrestricted access to voters across the country as the nation prepares for the 2027 general elections. Speaking at the 22nd All Nigeria Editors Conference in Enugu, Obi emphasized the need for a conducive environment for election campaigns. He stressed that presidential candidates should be free to campaign in every state without restrictions. This call comes amid concerns over restrictions imposed by some state governors on movements of political opponents.
Obi, a former Anambra State governor, cited his own experience as an example of tolerance during election campaigns. He recalled that during his second term as governor, he allowed then-Lagos State governor Babatunde Fashola to campaign in Anambra State for Chris Ngige, who was then in the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). Obi stated that he provided Fashola with his convoy, demonstrating his commitment to a free and open campaign environment. This approach, he believes, is essential for a healthy democracy.
The NDC presidential flag bearer also emphasized the need for issue-based campaigns in the 2027 elections. He called on the media to play a crucial role in keeping candidates and their supporters in check. Obi urged editors to scrutinize candidates based on their background, qualifications, and campaign promises. This approach, he believes, will help to eliminate name-calling, character assassination, and other forms of negative campaigning.
Obi's call for issue-based campaigns comes amid concerns over the current state of politics in Nigeria. He noted that the current campaign environment is often characterized by personal attacks and insults. Obi stressed that he has never engaged in such behavior, even against those he disagrees with, including President Bola Tinubu. He emphasized the need for respect and civility in political discourse.
The Anambra State Government has released documents detailing N363.38 million in salary arrears owed to workers and pensioners of two defunct state agencies. This development comes amid Obi's claims that he left the state without debt. The former governor had stated that he left over $150 million in state investments when he handed over power in 2014. According to Obi, these funds could have grown to about $335 million if retained and reinvested.
Obi's claims have been disputed by the Anambra State Government, which presented the documents detailing the salary arrears. The government stated that the debts were accumulated during Obi's administration. This development has sparked a debate over the state of Anambra's finances during Obi's tenure.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, Obi's call for unrestricted campaign access and issue-based campaigns has sparked a national debate. The NDC presidential candidate's emphasis on a conducive campaign environment and respect for opponents has been seen as a crucial step towards a healthy democracy. The media's role in promoting issue-based campaigns and holding candidates accountable has also been highlighted.
Key points
- Peter Obi demands unrestricted access to voters nationwide for the 2027 campaigns.
- Obi advocates for issue-based campaigns, free from name-calling and character assassination.
- The Anambra State Government disputes Obi's claims of leaving the state without debt, presenting documents detailing N363.38 million in salary arrears.
