There is no democracy in Nigeria today, I am committed to a better Nigeria – Peter Obi

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has maintained that Nigeria is not currently practicing true democracy.

Citing recent developments, Obi pointed to the conduct of the Edo State governorship election and the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State as evidence of democratic failure.

President Bola Tinubu had imposed a state of emergency in Rivers to avert an escalating political crisis between Governor Sim Fubara and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. As part of the intervention, Tinubu suspended Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the state House of Assembly for six months, appointing a Sole Administrator to oversee the state.

Obi condemned the move, arguing that the appointed administrator lacks democratic legitimacy since he was not elected by the people.

In an interview with Arise Television, Obi said: “There is no democracy in Nigeria today.”

Asked why he’s running for the 2027 presidential election, he said: “We will continue to be agitating for true democracy.

“The election in Edo, does it show any sign that Nigeria is a democratic country? No, the coffin was nailed by what happened in Rivers State.

“You cannot in any circumstances solve a problem in a Democratic setting by going against rules. You can’t even solve any problem by going against the rules.

“I am committed to a better Nigeria and I have what it takes and I have the experience. Of all those who want to be President today, nobody has my background. I have what it takes, I have operated in the corporate world, and I have been a governor.”