By Stella Odueme
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for the protection of opposition parties and the strengthening of Nigeria’s democracy following a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja nullifying the emergence of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) chairman and actions taken by him.
Obi, who expressed shock over the court's decision, said the development was unsettling, particularly with the 2027 general election approaching.
In a statement, he made available on his X handle on, he said although he respected the authority of the judiciary to determine disputes in accordance with the law, there was a need to ensure certainty in the electoral process ahead of the polls.
He expressed concern that prolonged uncertainty over political parties and their candidates could undermine preparations for the presidential election.
The former Anambra State governor alleged that the ruling party was engineering instability within opposition parties, citing what he described as similar experiences in the Labour Party.
According to him, such developments are part of efforts to restrict civic space and weaken opposition campaigns.
Obi maintained that a fundamental principle of democracy was that voters, rather than the courts, should ultimately determine who leads the country.
While reaffirming his confidence in the judiciary, he appealed for the protection of democratic institutions and the right of voters to make free and fair choices.
He also noted that the growing spread of military rule in parts of West Africa should encourage Nigeria to strengthen its democratic institutions and protect opposition politics.
Obi said that, if elected president, he would give special attention to ensuring that opposition parties remain stable and active, while their candidates are allowed to participate freely in electoral contests without persecution.
He urged stakeholders to use the current situation as an opportunity to strengthen democracy by creating an enabling environment for opposition parties to thrive.
He concluded with his political slogan, declaring that a new Nigeria was possible.