Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has cautioned that the Supreme Court’s ruling on Rivers State could set Nigeria’s democracy on a dangerous path.
He criticized the judiciary’s role in political instability, warning that such decisions undermine democratic principles and governance. Obi urged President Bola Tinubu and other leaders to prioritize national stability, good governance, and respect for democratic institutions rather than engaging in actions that could destabilize the country.
In a strongly worded statement, Obi lamented that instead of tackling urgent issues—such as soaring poverty levels, increasing infant mortality rates, rampant insecurity, and millions of out-of-school children—national discourse remains fixated on trivial controversies.
He criticized the focus on allegations of sexual harassment, budget padding, Assembly speakership disputes, and reckless court rulings that threaten democracy rather than addressing the pressing needs of the citizens.
Obi described the actions of the three arms of government—Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary—as “disgusting and uninspiring.” He pointed to the Executive’s display of negative power in Osun State, judicial pronouncements in Rivers State capable of destabilizing democracy, and scandals in the National Assembly as signs of a failing system.
He warned against undue interference in sub-national governance and condemned politicians who defect to parties solely for electoral advantage. According to him, the neglect of serious governance is a grave disservice to millions of Nigerians who deserve competent, accountable leadership.
“The blatant display of political rascality, coupled with widespread irregularities, paints a distressing picture of a leadership that has abandoned its core responsibility. Governance is beginning to resemble a theatrical performance rather than a commitment to public service,” Obi stated.
He stressed that Nigeria cannot afford to be run like a reality TV show while citizens suffer. Instead, the nation needs leadership grounded in character, competence, capacity, consistency, compassion, and urgency—one that prioritizes education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.
“Anything less threatens the nation’s stability, undermines the present, and betrays the future,” Obi concluded.
