Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic republic is Congress, Peter Obi, has questioned the priorities of Nigeria’s political class, warning that worsening insecurity, hunger and economic hardship re0hg1kphokquire urgent national action rather thanu an obsession with political calculations.
Speaking after completing his nomination inquiry form at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja, Obi said some of the questions contained in the document triggered deeper reflections about leadership, accountability and the direction of the country.
The former Anambra State governor noted that a section of the form asking whether a candidate had ever been adjudged a lunatic or declared of unsound mind prompted him to consider whether those occupying positions of authority were demonstrating the sound judgment expected of public leaders.
According to Obi, the country is facing challenges too severe to be overshadowed by political maneuvering and succession battles. He argued that rising cases of insecurity, widespread poverty and growing economic difficulties should be commanding the full attention of leaders across party lines.
He said that in a nation confronted by such crises, responsible leadership would require convening a broad-based meeting of political stakeholders to develop urgent solutions capable of addressing the suffering of citizens.
“What truly should be our priority now as leaders of a nation?” Obi asked, stressing that the welfare and security of Nigerians must take precedence over partisan interests and electoral ambitions.
The NDC flagbearer also used the occasion to advocate greater transparency in the electoral process. Referring to another question on the INEC form concerning forged certificates, Obi called on the electoral commission to make public the academic credentials and qualifications submitted by all candidates seeking elective office.
He argued that greater openness would strengthen public trust in elections, promote accountability and enable voters to make informed choices about those seeking public office.
“Transparency strengthens democracy and builds public trust,” he stated.
Obi maintained that Nigeria’s future depends on leaders who possess competence, character, capacity, compassion and a genuine commitment to public service, insisting that the country cannot afford politics as usual at a time when millions of citizens are struggling with daily survival.
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle, the former governor urged leaders to focus less on power contests and more on restoring security, reviving the economy and improving the living conditions of ordinary Nigerians.