Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has challenged all contenders in the 2027 presidential election to present their credentials, defend their records and subject their campaign promises to public scrutiny.
Obi made the call on Thursday at a press conference at his residence in GRA, Onitsha, Anambra State, where he formally outlined his campaign agenda alongside his running mate, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso.
He said Nigerians deserved candidates who were willing to engage directly with citizens and answer questions about their performance, competence and plans for the country.
«“Every candidate that seeks the presidency must have the courage to come before the people, answer their questions, defend their records and subject their vision to public scrutiny,” Obi said.»
The former Anambra State governor said effective leadership required leaders to be physically present among citizens, particularly communities affected by insecurity, flooding and other disasters.
«“You cannot truly lead a people you are unwilling to visit, listen to and understand,” he added.»
Obi said his campaign would focus on issues affecting Nigerians rather than ethnicity and religion, urging voters to assess candidates based on competence, capacity, compassion, character and commitment.
He identified insecurity, poverty, food insecurity, unemployment, poor infrastructure, unreliable electricity and the high cost of doing business as major challenges facing the country.
The NDC candidate pledged to prioritise production, investment, agriculture, manufacturing, agro-processing, technology and energy as key components of his economic agenda.
According to him, his administration would improve security for farmers, expand access to finance and markets, strengthen infrastructure and manage public resources responsibly.
«“Nigeria cannot import its way to prosperity. We will produce more of what we consume, process more of what we produce, and compete more effectively in global markets,” Obi said.»
He also promised reforms in the security, education and healthcare sectors, while pledging to reduce wasteful government spending and encourage investments that would expand productive capacity.
Obi urged Nigerians to demand accountability from elected officials beyond election day, stressing that democracy required continuous citizen participation.
«“Democracy does not end on election day. Citizens must continue to demand transparency, accountability and resolve from those entrusted with the mandate to govern,” he said.»
The presidential hopeful expressed confidence that his partnership with Kwankwaso would bring complementary experience to the task of addressing Nigeria’s challenges.
He also called on Nigerians to reject campaigns based on propaganda, ethnic sentiments and religious divisions.
The 2027 presidential campaign officially commenced on Wednesday in line with the timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission, with the presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for January 16, 2027.
Obi is seeking the presidency under the NDC, while former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is among opposition figures mobilising under the African Democratic Congress coalition. Incumbent President Bola Tinubu is also seeking re-election under the All Progressives Congress.
Obi concluded by reaffirming his belief that Nigeria could overcome its challenges if properly governed.
“Nigeria can work, and Nigeria must work,” he said.
