‘My name is free from thuggery, rigging’: Peter Obi challenges Nigerians to probe his political record

The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has declared that his entire political career has been marked by integrity, civility, and a strict adherence to democratic principles, devoid of violence, thuggery, or electoral malpractice.

The former Anambra State governor, in a statement on his X page on Tuesday, challenged Nigerians to investigate his record, insisting that none of his political contests had been marred by violence or manipulation.

“Throughout my political journey, I have never been involved in thuggery, the snatching of ballot boxes, or any form of electoral malpractice,” he stated confidently. “I challenge anyone: conduct your investigations. You will find no stains of rigging or violence associated with my name.”

Obi maintained that he has always chosen a path grounded in fairness and mutual respect, regardless of the intensity of the race.

“I have always chosen the path of peace, principle, and civility,” he continued. 

“Ask those who have contested against me—none were ever denied their rights, framed, or falsely accused. None was asked to place their advert materials or break the bank to do so. I believe in fair competition, not manufactured victories.”

He said desperation for power has never defined his politics, stating that he does not engage in aggressive rhetoric, personal attacks or unrealistic promises.

Obi added that what drives him is a commitment to seeing Nigeria work, not personal ambition, and that leadership must be built on service, integrity and accountability.

He also restated his one-term proposal ahead of the 2027 election, adding that he can change Nigeria in four years.

“I still find it baffling that my decision to do a term of four years, if given the mandate to rule this country, is generating so much agitation. By this feeling, we are doubting the fact that a sincere leader can achieve much in 48 months,” he said.

“In four years we can confront corruption head-on, redirecting resources to priority areas.

“For instance, the trillions used to acquire new presidential jets and other unnecessary expenses at this time could have been channelled into education, healthcare, or infrastructure.