Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate in Nigeria, has issued a statementcongratulating Donald Trump on his victory in the 2024 US presidential election.
Obi expressed optimism that Trump’s win would strengthen global democracy and contribute to fostering international peace.
In his statement, Obi also commended Vice President Kamala Harris for her resilience and dedication throughout the campaign. He acknowledged her courage and strength in the contest, noting that ultimately, the will of the people prevailed.
US Elections as a Model
Obi highlighted the peaceful conduct of the US elections, praising the efficient transmission and release of results. He urged Nigeria to draw inspiration from this process, calling for the abandonment of outdated practices that continue to hinder Nigeria’s democratic progress1. These practices include:
Electoral malpractice
Vote-buying
Election violence
Network disruptions
Call for Electoral Reform
The former Anambra State governor emphasized that no democratic election is complete unless the people’s will is genuinely reflected through the ballots. He called on Nigerians to collectively work towards restoring the integrity of their electoral system1.
Looking Ahead to 2027
Obi’s statement comes amid speculation about his potential candidacy in Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election. Yunusa Tanko, the National Coordinator of the ‘Obidient Movement’, recently affirmed the possibility of Obi becoming Nigeria’s president in 20271. Tanko emphasized the need for better preparation, including training election agents and advocating for electoral reform.
The Labour Party candidate’s focus on electoral integrity and his call for Nigeria to learn from the US election process align with his ongoing efforts to position himself as a champion of democratic reform in Nigeria. As the country looks towards 2027, Obi’s message continues to resonate with those seeking change in Nigeria’s political landscape.
