Presidential Candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has claimed that he has never engaged in electoral malpractice, violence, or any form of political misconduct throughout his career.
In an X post on Tuesday, Obi reiterated his commitment to clean and principled politics, urging anyone with evidence of wrongdoing against him to come forward.
“Throughout my political journey, I have never been involved in thuggery, the snatching of ballot boxes, or any form of electoral malpractice.
“I challenge anyone: conduct your investigations. You will find no stains of rigging or violence associated with my name,” he said.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, said he has always maintained respect for his political opponents, ensuring that no one who contested against him was subjected to defamation or denied their rights.
“Ask those who have contested against me, none were ever denied their rights, framed, or falsely accused. None was forced to break the bank to run their campaigns or mount their advert materials. I believe in fair competition, not manufactured victories,” he said.
Reaffirming his stance that a single presidential term is enough to transform Nigeria, Obi said the uproar generated by his one-term pledge reflects widespread scepticism about honest leadership.
“I still find it baffling that my decision to do a term of four years, if given the mandate to rule this country, is generating so much agitation. By this feeling, we are doubting the fact that a sincere leader can achieve much in 48 months,” he wrote.
Obi dismissed notions that he is desperate for power, stressing that his motivation is national progress, not personal ambition.
“I have never been desperate in the pursuit of power, or anything else, for that matter,” he said. “What drives me is not personal ambition, but a deep commitment to see Nigeria work. And if the sacrifice required of me is four years of sincere, accountable leadership, so be it.”
He maintained that a committed administration can achieve significant reforms within one term—tackling corruption, upholding the rule of law, and rebuilding key institutions.
“In four years we can confront corruption head-on, redirecting resources to priority areas,” Obi stated. “For example, the trillions used to acquire new presidential jets and other unnecessary expenses at this time could have been channelled into education, healthcare, or infrastructure.”
“Leadership, to me, is not about entitlement. It is about service. If given the mandate, for just one term, I will dedicate every moment to building a Nigeria that works for all,” he added.