Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has raised concerns that Nigeria’s democracy is gradually collapsing.
Obi spoke on Wednesday after attending the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation’s Annual Democracy Dialogue in Accra, Ghana. He stressed that the nation’s political system no longer meets the people’s needs or holds leaders accountable.
“Democracy should be about accountability, service to citizens, security, education, healthcare, and lifting people out of poverty,” Obi said in a statement posted on his X account.
He noted that the system breaks down when leaders ignore these responsibilities.
“Democracy dies when it loses accountability to the people and stops prioritising their needs,” he added.
Citing Nigeria as a clear example, Obi argued that the country’s democracy has turned into a tool for elite dominance, with public resources often diverted for personal or family gain.
Despite his criticism, Obi maintained hope for change. He urged Nigerians to take democracy and elections seriously by voting for leaders with competence, character, compassion, and a genuine commitment to public service.
