Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has emphasized that free and fair elections in Nigeria will only be achieved when honest individuals take charge of the electoral process.
Obi made this statement during the launch of two books on Internal Security and Election Security, authored by former Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase, in Abuja.
Obi noted that election malpractice continues to thrive due to the actions of certain politicians determined to manipulate the electoral system. He stated that ensuring election security would be much easier if politicians refrained from attempting to steal elections.
He explained that the real issue lies not with security agencies or election officials, but with the politicians who often attempt to influence these bodies for their personal gain. Obi argued that if political leaders choose to be fair and transparent, Nigeria’s elections would improve, which in turn would lead to better governance and a reduction in insecurity.
According to Obi, a commitment to fairness by politicians would directly contribute to a reduction in criminal activities. He stressed that the fight against electoral malpractice must begin with those in power showing dedication to fair practices.
Reflecting on his time as Anambra State Governor, Obi shared his experience during his second-term election. He credited former President Goodluck Jonathan for ensuring that the election was free and fair. Obi recalled asking President Jonathan for a fair process, saying he did not want a single vote that did not belong to him. He also mentioned his direct request to have certain political operatives removed from the state to prevent interference, which Jonathan acted upon swiftly.
On the broader issue of national security, Obi linked the rising crime rates to corruption among public officials. He argued that if public funds were properly managed, security agencies would be better equipped to maintain law and order. Obi emphasized that if public officers ceased stealing, law enforcement could perform more effectively, making it easier to handle criminals.
He also praised Solomon Arase for his professionalism and integrity during his tenure as Inspector General of Police. Obi expressed appreciation for Arase’s contributions, highlighting his professionalism and the valuable insight offered through his books on internal and election security.
“Election security will be easy if we don’t have people who are ready to steal the elections,” Obi declared.
” If politicians decide to do the right thing, criminality will reduce,” Obi stated. “Ending electoral malpractice must begin with those in power being committed to fair play.
” I told President Jonathan that I did not want a single vote that did not belong to me,” he said. “I asked him to ensure that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the police conducted a free and fair election for the sake of peace,” he stated.
He explained that he personally requested the removal of certain political operatives from Anambra State to prevent interference. “When PDP officials came to my state, I called the President and told him I wanted them to leave. Within minutes, he acted, and they left the state,” Obi said, emphasizing Jonathan’s commitment to fairness.
On the issue of national security, Obi linked rising crime rates to corruption among public officials. He argued that if public funds were used properly, the police and other security agencies would be better equipped to maintain law and order. “If we stop stealing as public officers, the police will do their jobs more effectively, and the criminals will be easier to handle,” he stated.
He also praised Solomon Arase for his professionalism and integrity during his tenure as Inspector General of Police. “He is a first-class police officer who performed his duties professionally,” Obi said. “I appreciate his work and his contribution through these books on internal and election security.”
