Electoral Integrity Threatened By Compromised Institutions- Obi
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the January 2027 election, Peter Obi, has criticised the judiciary, university professors and senior lawyers over their roles in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Obi spoke in a goodwill message at a democracy dialogue organised by the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation in Bauchi State. The dialogue, themed “Beyond Election,” examined Nigeria’s democratic development and the need for reforms that go beyond the conduct of periodic elections.
Reflecting on his legal battle over the Anambra State governorship election, Obi expressed concerns about the state of the judiciary, recalling the judges who handled his case at the time.
He said the judges who presided over the matter were no longer commonly found in the country’s judicial system.
Obi also criticised academics who have served as returning officers during elections, particularly university professors.
The former Anambra State governor alleged that some professors involved in election administration had facilitated electoral manipulation that resulted in the emergence of candidates he described as unqualified.
He said the involvement of academics in election administration should be subjected to greater scrutiny to ensure that their credibility and professional standing are not compromised.
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Obi also took aim at senior lawyers, accusing some of using their legal expertise to represent individuals he described as election riggers. According to him, the legal profession, academia and the judiciary have critical roles to play in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, but their actions must be guided by integrity and commitment to justice.
The former governor’s remarks came amid wider discussions at the democracy dialogue on the need to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions and restore public confidence in the electoral process.
The event focused on the challenges confronting Nigeria’s democracy and the need for institutional reforms capable of ensuring credible elections, accountability and good governance beyond election periods.