The candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi has thumbed down the recent governorship election in Edo State.
Obi described it as a blatant example of state capture that must not be allowed to stand.
In a statement shared on his X handle on Monday, the LP presidential torchbearer criticised the flawed leadership recruitment process in Edo, warning that such actions spell doom for the nation.
He stated, “What transpired over the weekend in Edo State under the guise of an election in no way represents the democratic process we have chosen for electing our political leaders.
“It was, instead, a glaring example of ‘state capture’ and a continued gross undermining of our democratic values and processes.
“Any nation whose leadership recruitment process is so critically flawed is doomed, and we are witnessing the effects in our country.”
Obi urged those in positions of power to prevent the situation from standing, cautioning them against relying on such tactics to retain control.
“As a country, we have made significant investments in IReV and BVAS. These systems must be properly utilised to free our electoral process from the pervasive falsification that continues to worsen.
“To the agencies and individuals being used to undermine our democracy because they hold positions of authority, remember that your tenure is not eternal. The society you are helping to destroy today will eventually take its revenge on you tomorrow.
“To the lecturers and others complicit in this charade, reflect deeply on the damage you are doing to the very foundation of our democracy. The harm you are causing today will, without a doubt, come back to haunt you and affect your children in the future.”
Obi restated that such actions have no place in a true democracy. “This is why I have always maintained that today’s politics is not about capturing power but about saving the country and making it work for everyone, regardless of their background.
“I remain committed to building a new and truly democratic Nigeria, which I firmly believe is very POssible.”