The Labour Party presidential candidate in the February 25, 2023 election, Peter Obi has said the state of democracy in Nigeria was worrying.
Obi has cited cases of corruption in the executive, judiciary, and parliament as the main reasons hindering democracy in the country.
“As witnessed in the country today, the mindless erosion of the very ideals and tenets on which Nigeria’s democracy was built, if not checked, will only push the nation deeper into lawlessness,” Obi stated in a statement posted on his X account (formerly Twitter).
He pointed out that disrespect for the rule of law, and endemic corruption are pulling Nigeria away from democracy.
The opposition leader made the remarks on Friday, September 15 during the 2023 edition of the International Democracy Day celebration.
“The current trend of endemic corruption, abuse of the constitution, disrespect for the rule of law, and transactional politics which cuts across the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of government, have continued to conflict with our nation’s enforcement of democracy.
“Consequently, our dear nation has continued to swing dangerously away from the boundaries of true democracy. Gradually, we are losing one of the biggest intangible assets that make a nation strong, which is respect for the rule of law.
“I call on all Nigerians to remain committed to building and reinforcing our nation’s democracy. Once again, I restate my commitment to a new and truly democratic Nigeria. I am in this struggle solely for the betterment of our society.
“My vision of a new and truly democratic Nigeria is borne out of the deep conviction that Nigeria if given good leadership as I offer to give, will be beneficial to every Nigerian. We must not give up on our nation because a new and truly democratic Nigeria is possible.”
Obi has also disclosed his decision to challenge the outcome of the tribunal which upheld the win of President Bola Tinubu.
This was after the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal on September 6 upheld President Tinubu’s win.
Consequently, the tribunal noted that the petitioners, Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar failed to prove the issue of electoral malpractice.
