Bauchi, Nigeria — Peter Obi, the 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has criticised what he described as the deep erosion of democratic values in the country, alleging that university professors are now assisting “illiterates” to rig elections.
Obi made the remarks on Tuesday while speaking at the 2026 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation Democracy Dialogue held in Bauchi State.
The former Anambra State governor painted a grim picture of institutional decay, contrasting the current situation with his own past experience in the courts.
He recalled spending three years challenging his election as Anambra governor. “I was in court for three years challenging my election. Five judges that I never met for one day gave judgment in my favour. It cannot happen in Nigeria of today. I went to the Court of Appeal; five judges I never met gave judgment in my favour,” Obi said.
He then highlighted what he sees as a sharp decline: “So, if you look at that and look at what is happening today in Nigeria where professors are now aiding illiterates to rig elections, where our lawmakers have removed forgery as an offence in electoral matters, and Senior Advocates of Nigeria are defending forgery.”
Obi further accused religious leaders of praying for “criminal politicians for blessings” and claimed that some judges have joined the chorus of “On your mandate we stand,” a popular campaign slogan. “We have a crisis,” he declared.
The NDC flagbearer warned that the normalisation of electoral malpractice and institutional compromise poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy. He urged citizens to critically examine the direction of the country, stating that “an unexamined life is not worth living” and that the abuses tolerated today would eventually harm future generations. “We need to reverse this because the abuse we are allowing today will take its revenge on our children,” he said.
Obi’s comments form part of broader concerns he has raised about electoral integrity, the role of professionals in the process, and the need for stronger democratic institutions ahead of the 2027 general elections. The dialogue, themed around issues beyond elections, provided a platform for discussions on reforms and the state of democracy in Nigeria.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no immediate official response from academic bodies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), or other institutions referenced in the remarks.
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