By Amanabo Ocholi
Published: May 21, 2025 | Lagos, Nigeria
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, has strongly criticized Nigeria’s political system, declaring that democracy is no longer present in the country.
Obi, who made the statement during an interview on Arise Television, cited recent political developments in Edo and Rivers states as clear indicators of the country’s democratic decline.
“There is no democracy in Nigeria today,” Obi said emphatically.
His remarks come in the wake of a controversial move by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, following a bitter political feud between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike.
As part of federal intervention, Tinubu suspended the governor, his deputy, and the entire State House of Assembly for six months, replacing them with a Sole Administrator, a move that has drawn widespread condemnation from democratic advocates.
Obi criticized the federal action, describing it as undemocratic and unconstitutional.
“The person appointed as Sole Administrator was not elected by the people. In a democracy, power must come from the ballot, not from presidential appointments,” he stated.
He also referenced the conduct of the recent Edo State governorship election, expressing disappointment in the electoral process.
“The election in Edo — does it show any sign that Nigeria is a democratic country? No. The coffin was nailed by what happened in Rivers State,” he added.
When asked about his plans for the 2027 presidential election, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to fighting for true democracy and a better Nigeria.
“We will continue to agitate for true democracy. I am committed to a better Nigeria, and I have what it takes. Of all those who want to be president today, nobody has my background. I’ve worked in the corporate world and served as a governor.”
