Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, has urged his supporters to protect their votes in the 2027 general election, vowing to resist any attempt to rig or undermine the electoral process.
Mr Obi made the declaration on Thursday at a town hall meeting organised by the party in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The former Anambra State governor said Nigerians must be allowed to vote freely, have their votes counted and see their choices respected in the 2027 election.
“Our votes this time must count, and whoever doesn’t count it, we will count the person,” Mr Obi said.
He said Nigerians were tired of what he described as the prevailing situation in the country, challenging politicians seeking elective offices to come out and engage directly with the electorate.
“We’ve had enough of this nonsense, so I assure you, let whoever wants to be anything come out and speak to us,” he said.
Mr Obi said the town hall meeting was designed to provide an avenue for the party to listen to the concerns of Nigerians and respond directly to them.
He stressed that anyone aspiring to lead the country must be prepared to engage citizens and answer questions about their plans and programmes.
“That’s what Rabiu Kwankwaso and I are going to do this afternoon. We want to listen to you and answer your questions,” he said.
The NDC candidate also underscored the importance of direct communication between political leaders and citizens, saying leadership could not be delegated to intermediaries.
“Leadership cannot be outsourced. If you want to lead, you have to talk to the people,” Mr Obi said.
He further promised to maintain regular communication with Nigerians if elected president, saying his administration would prioritise accessibility and direct engagement with citizens.
“As your chief servant, I will be speaking to Nigerians daily and monthly. Every Nigerian will have an opportunity to know who I am,” he said.
