Peter Obi criticizes Senate for rejecting electronic transmission, warning Nigeria risks electoral chaos and calling for democratic reforms ahead of 2027.
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over recent developments in Nigeria’s electoral system, describing the nation’s current trajectory as “disgraceful.”
Obi’s remarks came in the aftermath of the tragic loss of over 150 lives in Kwara State yesterday, an incident he urged Nigerians to mourn before commenting on political matters.
In a detailed statement, Obi criticized the Senate’s rejection of mandatory electronic transmission of election results ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He called the decision “an unforgivable act of electoral manipulation” and warned that it represents a deliberate attack on Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
“By refusing to implement essential transparency measures, our leaders are eroding the very basis of credible elections,” he said.
Obi highlighted that the 2023 general elections were marred by disputes and controversies directly linked to the absence of full electronic transmission.
“Nigerians were fed excuses about a supposed ‘glitch’ that never existed,” he noted, adding that while many African countries employ electronic transmission to strengthen democracy, Nigeria—often regarded as Africa’s giant—lags behind, hindering the continent’s progress.
He further criticized the nation’s leadership for prioritizing conferences and policy papers over decisive reforms.
“We are wasting time while the real issue—the deliberate resistance to change by the elite—is pulling the country backward,” Obi said.
He warned that rejecting mandatory electronic transmission entrenches disorder and allows a small group to manipulate the system for their own benefit.
Obi questioned the fundamental purpose of government, asking whether it exists to maintain order and justice or to institutionalize chaos.
He urged Nigerians to consider the future of the country and its children, stressing the need for leadership that ensures credible, orderly, and livable governance rather than perpetual confusion.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s international image, Obi recalled criticisms from global figures, including a former UK Prime Minister and former US President Donald Trump, who labeled Nigeria as “fantastically corrupt” and a “now disgraced nation,” respectively.
He warned that continued resistance to transparency only confirms these negative perceptions.
“The criminality witnessed in 2023 cannot and will not be tolerated in 2027,” Obi said.
He called on Nigerians to prepare to rise up and reclaim the country from deliberate manipulation through legitimate and decisive action.
He also urged the international community to monitor Nigeria’s electoral trajectory, warning that continued manipulation poses risks to democracy and national development.
Concluding his statement, Obi expressed cautious optimism, declaring, “A new Nigeria is possible, but we must all stand and fight for it.”
Ireport247news
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