Peter Obi Claims Nigeria Lacks True Democracy

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, declares that Nigeria lacks true democracy, citing failures in governance and electoral integrity. He emphasizes that the government is not representative of the people and criticizes misprioritized spending amid pressing national needs.

Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, asserts that Nigeria is not a genuine democracy. During an interview on Arise TV’s Prime Time show, he expressed that Nigeria does not fulfill the fundamental requirements of a democratic nation. He stated, “I have said it, and I maintain that there is no democracy in Nigeria today.”

He elaborated on his definition of democracy as governance that is of, by, and for the people. He pointed out the absence of these traits, stating, “Today, our government is not of the people.” Obi emphasized that citizens’ votes do not count in elections, using the recent situations in Edo and beyond as examples of the compromised democratic process.

Furthermore, Obi criticized the government for not functioning “for the people.” He recounted his visit to a camp for displaced persons, detailing their urgent need for healthcare and education. He lamented, “They begged me for just one nurse…they don’t even have a primary school, which I also promised to address.”

Obi raised concerns about governmental spending priorities, highlighting an expenditure of N21 billion to renovate the vice-president’s residence while neglecting essential infrastructure for future generations. He remarked on this noted imbalance, asking how priorities could be so misaligned. Additionally, he previously criticized President Tinubu for the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers and the suspension of the state governor.

Peter Obi’s statements reflect a deep concern regarding the state of democracy in Nigeria, citing fundamental failures in governance, representation, and public service. His critique spans the lack of meaningful electoral participation to the misallocation of national resources, indicating a widespread governance crisis. Obi’s observations urge a reevaluation of political priorities in Nigeria.

Original Source: businessday.ng