- The ex-governor commended former IGP Solomon Arase for his contribution to security
- Obi added that criminality in the country is fueled by corrupt politicians who fail to lead by example.
The Labour Party 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has insisted that Nigeria’s elections can only be credible if politicians refrain from manipulating citizens’ votes.
Obi expressed this view at the public presentation of a book written by Solomon Arase, former inspector-general of police.
He stressed that leadership integrity is crucial for ensuring free and fair elections, drawing from his experience under former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Obi recalled telling Jonathan that he wanted an electoral process that genuinely reflected the people’s will, without any manipulated votes.
“I can’t make comment on election policy. I will only just say, it depends on whoever is in charge at the time,” Obi said.
“I’ve had the opportunity of being involved in free and fair elections under President Jonathan at my second term.”
“I went to him as the president and said, Mr. President, I don’t want any vote that doesn’t belong to me to be counted in my favor.”
“Let the INEC chairman, police, and other stakeholders ensure a peaceful and fair election,” Obi urged.
According to Obi, the integrity of elections hinges on the competence of key individuals involved.
The LP chieftain warned that if Nigerians tolerate the status quo, the country will remain plagued by crime and insecurity.
“The criminality will start from the politicians doing the right thing. If we want to talk about security, talk about everything, when we stop stealing as public officers,” he said.
Obi praised Arase for his professionalism and integrity during his tenure as IGP.
“He is a first-class police officer who performed his duties professionally,” he added.
“I appreciate his work and his contribution to the discourse on internal and election security.”
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