Politicians buy votes to loot resources, not serve people — Obi

• Obi said vote-buyers invest in corruption and seek to exploit political office for selfish enrichment, not for public service.
• He described vote-buyers as criminals in disguise who deny Nigerians quality education, functional healthcare and decent employment opportunities.

The 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians to get organised ahead of the 2027 elections.

Obi, in a post on his verified X account on Monday, described vote-buying as one of the biggest threats to democracy.

He appealed to citizens to register, collect and protect their Permanent Voter Cards, which he called the “bridge to a new Nigeria.”

The former Anambra State governor said Nigerians must make election rigging difficult by turning out in large numbers to vote.

He argued that those who buy votes are not helping but “investing in corruption” to enrich themselves from public resources.

Obi likened vote-buyers to “criminals in disguise” who deny the people quality schools, healthcare and decent jobs through their actions.

“To sell your vote is to sell the very opportunities that would have lifted you and your family out of poverty,” he said.

“Those who buy your vote are only buying it to make a profit from the seat of power, not to serve you,” he warned.

He reminded citizens that their votes remain powerful, noting that politicians would not go to desperate lengths to buy them otherwise.

Obi also called on Nigerians to rise, take responsibility and vote for leaders of “competence, character, capacity, and compassion.”

“Do not be deceived or intimidated. Let us stand together and prove that Nigeria belongs to the people, not to those who trade our future for selfish gain. A new Nigeria starts with you,” he added.