The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians and the judiciary to protect democratic principles and ensure that opposition parties are allowed to operate freely.
Obi made the call following a Federal High Court judgment in Abuja that nullified the emergence of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Chairman, David Mark, and actions taken by the party’s leadership.
In a statement posted on his X account on Thursday, the former Anambra State governor said he was shocked by the ruling, which he described as unsettling, particularly with the 2027 general election approaching.
Obi said he respected the authority of the court to determine disputes in accordance with the law but expressed concern about the timing of the judgment.
“I do not challenge the ruling of the court. The court of law is constituted to determine disputes according to the law. My concern is that three months before a general election, it is in the public interest to have certainty,” he said.
He warned that uncertainty surrounding political parties and their candidates close to an election could undermine the electoral process and restrict the space for opposition campaigns.
Obi also stressed that voters, rather than the courts, should ultimately determine who leads the country.
He called on the judiciary and other stakeholders to ensure that democratic institutions remain protected and that opposition parties are able to participate in the electoral process without undue interference.
