NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has questioned the priorities of Nigeria’s political leaders, arguing that the country’s worsening insecurity, hunger, and corruption should take precedence over political activities.
In a statement shared on Tuesday, Obi said his attention was drawn to questions on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nomination form while completing it, particularly those asking whether a candidate had ever been adjudged of unsound mind or presented a forged certificate.
Reflecting on the question about mental soundness, Obi wondered whether Nigeria’s current political leadership could genuinely claim to be acting with sound judgment amid the country’s deepening challenges.
According to him, with Nigerians—including children and security personnel—being abducted, widespread insecurity making highways unsafe, millions struggling to afford food, and public funds allegedly being diverted through questionable agencies and projects, politics should not be the nation’s primary focus.
Obi argued that a responsible leadership would have declared the country’s security and economic crises a national emergency, mobilising security agencies, experts, community leaders, and other stakeholders to urgently tackle the problems.
He stressed that Nigeria’s survival, security, and stability should take precedence over political calculations and partisan interests.
The former Anambra State governor also called for greater transparency in the electoral process, suggesting that INEC should publish the academic certificates and credentials submitted by all candidates seeking elective office.
According to Obi, such a move would strengthen public confidence in elections and ensure that leaders demonstrate integrity and compliance with the rules.
He concluded by saying that Nigeria’s challenges require leadership driven by competence, character, capacity, compassion, and commitment to public service, reiterating his belief that “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
