Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians not to abandon the country’s electoral process despite the disappointments many experienced during the 2023 general elections.
He maintained that sustained participation in elections remains essential to strengthening democracy and shaping a better future for the nation.
Obi made the appeal yesterday during a visit to the Continuous Voter Registration centres at the Nise and Nri civic centres in Anambra State, where he encouraged eligible Nigerians to register ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The former presidential candidate said the outcome of the 2023 polls should not discourage citizens from exercising their democratic rights, stressing that voting remains the most effective avenue for electing leaders capable of addressing challenges in education, healthcare and employment.
According to him, obtaining a Permanent Voter Card (PVC) and participating in elections are fundamental civic responsibilities that can help produce leaders committed to improving the welfare of Nigerians.
“While I move around registration centres, I try to encourage those yet to register because it is their civic responsibility.
“That is the way we can collectively build a better country where government will care about the people’s education, health and employment,” he said.
Obi acknowledged that many Nigerians were disillusioned because they believed their votes did not count in previous elections. Nevertheless, he urged citizens not to lose hope, insisting that remaining committed to the democratic process was necessary to secure a better future for the country.
“I urge all Nigerians who are of voting age and have not registered to go out and register to vote in the coming election.
“We can not give up because it did not work yesterday. We only work for a better future by doing the right thing. I assure you that your votes will count this time around,” he said.
Speaking on his party’s appeal against the recent Lokoja court judgment, Obi expressed optimism that justice would prevail, saying he had confidence in the judiciary to act appropriately.
“As per our appeal, I’m sure the judiciary will do the right thing. All we are interested in is to do our part,” he said.
