Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has warned the Nigerian Government against the encouragement of unresolved litigations and the infusion of crises within political parties.

In a statement on Monday, Obi stated that democracy must never become a weapon against the people, adding that a healthy democracy thrives on strong institutions, credible alternatives, and the freedom of citizens to make choices without intimidation, manipulation, or fear.

Obi, who dumped the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), said opposition parties must not be weakened or destroyed, because when democracy loses balance, the people ultimately suffer.

“Nigeria today is passing through one of the most difficult periods in its history. Poverty is rising. Hunger is widespread. Insecurity continues to threaten lives and livelihoods. Businesses are shutting down daily. Our young people are becoming discouraged, and many citizens have lost faith in the system. At a time like this, leadership must be driven not by propaganda or division, but by competence, capacity, character, and compassion,” he said.

He said his decision to join the NDC is therefore not an abandonment of values, but a continuation of the same mission he had always stood for: building a Nigeria where leadership is about service, where public resources are managed responsibly, where institutions function independently, and where every Nigerian, regardless of tribe, religion, region, or social status, can live with dignity, security, and hope.

He reiterated his commitment to working with all Nigerians of goodwill across political, ethnic, and religious lines. “The task before us is bigger than any individual or political party. It is about the future of our children and the survival of our dear nation.

“I thank Nigerians, especially our youths and women, for remaining peaceful, resilient, and hopeful despite the enormous challenges confronting the country. I urge you not to lose faith in Nigeria. Nations do not change because people surrender to hopelessness; they change because people continue to believe, continue to sacrifice, and continue to stand for what is right,” he said.

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(The Guardian)