The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has said only leaders who emerge through free, fair and credible elections deserve to be addressed as “Excellency.”

Obi made the declaration during the NDC Obi-Talks town hall meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he interacted with party members and residents on issues affecting Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The former Anambra State governor said the town hall provided an opportunity for an open discussion on critical national issues, including employment, healthcare, education, security and economic opportunities.

He reiterated his commitment to prioritising education and healthcare while working to lift Nigerians out of poverty, describing the three areas as critical drivers of national development.

According to him, the experiences of countries such as Bangladesh, Indonesia and India demonstrate that competent and purposeful leadership can transform nations facing significant socioeconomic challenges.

He cited Bangladesh’s progress in rice production, Indonesia’s growth in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and India’s efforts to reduce poverty as examples of how focused leadership can improve the welfare of citizens.

Obi said the experiences of the countries showed that national development was possible when leadership was competent, accountable, and committed to the welfare of the people.

The NDC presidential candidate said his major takeaway from the engagement was the determination of Rivers State residents to participate actively in the 2027 elections and ensure that their votes were counted.

He urged the people of the state to protect their mandate during the election, declaring that “the people of Rivers State will vote, and their votes must count.”

“Only leaders who emerge from a free, fair, and credible electoral process can truly be called Excellencies,” Obi said.

He challenged Rivers to set the pace for free, fair, and credible elections in 2027, stressing the importance of strengthening democratic institutions and respecting the choices of voters.

Obi expressed appreciation to the NDC Vice Presidential Candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso; the party’s Rivers State governorship candidate, Dumo Lulu-Briggs; the Rivers State Working Committee; the National Working Committee led by National Chairman, Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe; as well as supporters and well-wishers who attended the engagement.

He said the party’s broader mission was to “rescue Nigeria, rebuild our institutions, and restore hope to our people.”

(Tribune)