- Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi issued a warning that all votes must be counted in the 2027 general elections, stressing legal consequences for those undermining the process
- Obi urged Nigerians to remain at polling units after voting to witness the counting and transmission of results, framing transparency as key to protecting democracy
- He stated that anyone obstructing proper vote counting would be held accountable under the law, reinforcing calls for civic vigilance and credible elections
Former Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in previous elections, has issued a strong warning that every vote must be counted in the 2027 general elections, cautioning that anyone seeking to undermine the process would face legal consequences.
In a statement shared on his verified X account on Monday, Obi emphasised that Nigerians will insist on proper counting and recording of all valid votes, contrasting with perceived irregularities in prior elections. He urged voters to remain at their polling units after casting ballots to witness both the counting and the transmission of results, describing electoral transparency as essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.
“Unlike in the past, in 2027 our votes MUST count, and all those who are there not to count the votes will be counted among those destroying Nigeria,” Obi said.
He further underscored the importance of civic vigilance during the electoral process. “I encourage everyone to remain at the polling units after voting to count and witness the counting and transmission of results. Those who refuse to allow the votes count will be made to count the full weight of the law against rigging,” Obi added.
The former governor of Anambra State cautioned that failure to respect the sanctity of the vote would be treated as an act of undermining democracy. “Let me reiterate: if you do not count our votes, we will count you among those who destroy our democracy, thereby destroying our future, and you must answer to the law,” he warned.
Political observers note that Obi’s message reflects growing public concern over electoral integrity in Nigeria and highlights his commitment to ensuring that citizens’ votes are accurately captured and respected. Analysts also anticipate that such pronouncements may further mobilise voters to actively participate in monitoring the 2027 elections.
With Nigeria gearing up for the next general elections, Obi’s call for vigilance comes amid ongoing debates over electoral reforms, transparency, and the role of security agencies in safeguarding the democratic process. His statement reinforces the view that citizen engagement will play a pivotal role in ensuring credible and free elections.