The presidential flag bearer of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians to unite with him in what he described as a determined effort to free the country from years of poor leadership.
Speaking on Saturday in Uyo at the OBIDIENT Conference and his formal declaration for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), themed “Activating the PO Effect in ADC,” the former Anambra State governor stressed that his “Operation Rescue Nigeria” agenda goes beyond personal ambition. According to him, the mission is about safeguarding the future of younger generations who will inherit the consequences of today’s decisions.
Obi urged citizens to put aside political, ethnic and religious differences ahead of the 2027 presidential race, insisting that the integrity of the electoral process must be guaranteed. He maintained that election results should be transmitted electronically in real time and warned that any failure to comply should attract accountability.
“Nigeria must get it right in 2027,” he said, adding that democracy can only thrive when votes are properly counted and transparently transmitted. He appealed to supporters to stand with him in what he described as a collective struggle to rebuild the nation.
Addressing his exit from the Labour Party, Obi explained that he decided to leave after learning that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would not recognise the party’s leadership while he remained a member, and that there were alleged moves to prevent him from appearing on the ballot. Despite this, he declared his intention to contest the next presidential election regardless of obstacles.
He also criticised the current administration over the country’s rising debt profile, claiming that recent borrowings surpass those of previous governments. Obi expressed concern that much of the repayment would fall due between 2045 and 2050, leaving the younger generation to shoulder the burden.
If elected, he promised to channel significant resources into education and healthcare, arguing that sustainable national development depends largely on investing in human capital. He further stated that tackling poverty would be central to reducing crime and insecurity across the country.
Obi revealed plans to tour various states and higher institutions nationwide to engage directly with citizens and understand their challenges. He encouraged his supporters to remain focused on the broader goal of building a better future rather than pursuing personal interests.
Reaffirming his stance against corruption, he said meaningful change would begin when leaders and their families refrain from exploiting public office. Recalling his time as governor of Anambra State, Obi noted that he discouraged his wife from assuming the role of First Lady, emphasising that she was not elected alongside him. He also stated that although he approved numerous Certificates of Occupancy for government lands during his tenure, none were allocated to himself or his family.
In separate remarks, the global coordinator of the OBIDIENT Movement, Tanko Yunusa, called on supporters to intensify mobilisation efforts nationwide ahead of 2027, encouraging them to rally behind the ADC as the platform for change.
Similarly, the Akwa Ibom State coordinator of the movement, Dr Ben Smith, urged members to maintain unity, warning that internal divisions could weaken their collective objective. He stressed that the 2027 election should be viewed as a defining moment for a generation seeking employment opportunities, improved security, dignity for workers, and renewed hope for the country.
