Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), has made a strong statement on electoral integrity, vowing to jail anyone found guilty of rigging an election under his administration, regardless of the number of votes involved. In an interview with ARISE NEWS on September 24, 2026, Obi emphasized his commitment to free, fair, and credible elections. He stated that even one vote of electoral malpractice would lead to imprisonment.
Obi also promised to run an inclusive government, where opposition parties would not be harassed and would be involved in decisions concerning national importance. He assured that opposition parties would be consulted on major national decisions, including his foreign trips. Obi emphasized his desire for a united Nigeria, where everyone is involved in the decision-making process. He stated that he would remain accessible to Nigerians and spend most of his time in the country if elected president.
The former Anambra state governor criticized restrictions allegedly placed on his campaign activities in some states, arguing that political candidates should be allowed to campaign freely, irrespective of their opponents' political affiliations. Obi recalled his experience as Anambra governor, where he allowed political opponents to campaign in the state and provided support for some of their activities. He cited examples of providing his convoy for former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola's campaign and accompanying former President Olusegun Obasanjo during his campaign for Andy Uba.
Obi restated his position on Anambra State's debt profile during his tenure, rejecting claims that he left the state with $123 million in debt. He maintained that he did not borrow money or issue bonds on behalf of the state during his eight years in office. Obi stated that the state did not owe salaries, gratuities, pensions, contractors, or suppliers when he left office in March 2014. He explained that the World Bank and International Fund for Agricultural Development facilities cited in the debt claims were concessionary development funds obtained by the Federal Government.
According to Obi, Anambra's foreign debt stood at about $18 million when he assumed office and approximately $30 million when he left. He claimed that the state had over $150 million in dollar-denominated savings invested in bonds, generating about $10 million annually. Obi urged ARISE NEWS to independently verify the figures with the World Bank and Nigerian banks. He expressed confidence in his financial management of Anambra State during his tenure.
Obi denied having any dispute with Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo, describing him as his "very respected elder brother". He disowned a reported campaign council established by the Obedient Kwankwasiyya Movement, stating that the group did not have his approval. Obi expressed openness to discussions on cooperation among opposition parties ahead of the 2027 election, including possible arrangements involving presidential candidates stepping aside.
Obi emphasized that his priority is not simply becoming president but ensuring that Nigeria works and that the country holds free, fair, and credible elections. He urged opposition parties to work together to protect democracy, prevent electoral violence, and campaign on issues affecting ordinary Nigerians. Obi's commitment to democratic governance and electoral integrity has set the tone for his campaign ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Key points
- Peter Obi vows to jail anyone found guilty of rigging an election under his administration.
- Obi promises to run an inclusive government, involving opposition parties in national decisions.
- Obi rejects claims of leaving Anambra State with $123 million in debt, citing concessionary development funds obtained by the Federal Government.
