Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has emphasized the need for Nigerians to determine the issues politicians campaign on, rather than having policies and promises imposed on them. Speaking at an NDC town hall meeting in Kaduna, Obi stated that politicians often present "glossy manifestos" during election campaigns, only to make promises they are unable to fulfill after assuming office. He advocated for demand-driven politics, where Nigerians dictate the agenda.
The town hall meeting, attended by thousands of party members and supporters, was not a conventional campaign rally, but an avenue for the party to listen to Nigerians and understand their concerns ahead of the 2027 general elections. Obi noted that the meeting demonstrated the party's commitment to engaging with citizens and addressing their needs. He also called for an end to identity-based politics, urging Nigerians to prioritize national unity over tribal and religious considerations.
Obi highlighted the worsening security situation in Nigeria, which has made citizens increasingly apprehensive about traveling within the country. He recalled that people had questioned whether it was safe for him to travel to Kaduna for the town hall meeting. The NDC candidate pledged that an NDC administration would prioritize security and work towards restoring Nigerians' confidence to travel freely across the country.
To demonstrate his commitment to addressing security challenges, Obi promised to spend his holidays within Nigeria, particularly visiting states and communities facing security challenges. He stated that in four years, he would never take holidays outside the country, instead choosing to visit places like Zamfara, Borno, Kano, Oyo, and Ondo. This, he believes, would help him better understand the needs of Nigerians and address them effectively.
On education and social mobility, Obi emphasized the need for policies that ensure every child can access education and improve their socioeconomic status, regardless of their family background. He envisioned a Nigeria where a child of nobody can be somebody without knowing anybody. This, he believes, would be achieved through targeted policies and programs that promote equal opportunities for all.
Rabiu Kwankwaso, the NDC vice-presidential candidate, also spoke at the event, describing the gathering as historic. He noted that Obi traveled directly to Kaduna after arriving in Abuja from the United Kingdom, demonstrating the party's commitment to engaging with citizens across the country. Kwankwaso identified insecurity, job creation, education, and agricultural development as key issues the party would address if elected.
The Kaduna meeting formed part of the NDC's ongoing town hall engagements ahead of the 2027 general elections. Kwankwaso expressed gratitude to God for the large turnout, which he attributed to growing interest in the party. He also noted that the NDC, registered less than a year ago, was gaining strength ahead of the elections, and thanked Nigerians for their support.
Key points
- Peter Obi calls for demand-driven politics, where Nigerians dictate the campaign agenda.
- Obi pledges to prioritize security and restore Nigerians' confidence to travel freely.
- The NDC aims to address key issues, including insecurity, job creation, education, and agricultural development.
