Edo Guber: Peter Obi Warns INEC and Complicit Agencies of Lasting Consequences upon Their Children
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in Nigeria's last election, has expressed deep concern over the conduct of the recent Edo State governorship election. He described it as a clear demonstration of "state capture" and a continuation of efforts to undermine Nigeria’s democratic processes. Obi's warning extends to those involved in what he views as an erosion of democratic values, urging them to consider the long-term damage they are causing to the nation's future.
In a strongly-worded statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Obi stressed that the actions taken by individuals and institutions involved in these malpractices will ultimately haunt them and their descendants.
Election as a Symbol of State Capture
Peter Obi did not mince words when he criticized the Edo State governorship election. According to him, the election was far from being a true reflection of democratic ideals and the will of the people. Instead, he referred to the event as a “blatant example of state capture.”
"What happened over the weekend in the name of an election in Edo State does not in any way represent the democratic process we chose as a method of electing our political leadership," Obi said.
His reference to "state capture" suggests that powerful forces within the government and political landscape are manipulating electoral outcomes to maintain their dominance, thereby weakening the nation’s democratic fabric. Obi emphasized that any nation whose political leadership is selected through such a flawed process is bound for failure, and Nigeria is already experiencing the consequences of this broken system.
A Call for Reflection on the Role of Institutions and Individuals
Obi did not limit his criticisms to the political class but also addressed specific agencies and individuals who play roles in the electoral process. He expressed disappointment at how technology, such as the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) IReV and BVAS systems—introduced to enhance transparency—have been manipulated or sidelined in favor of electoral malpractice.
"As a country, we have invested significantly in IReV and BVAS, and they must be allowed to function and be used properly in order to free our electoral process from the massive falsification that has plagued it," Obi stated.
In a stern warning to those in authority, particularly lecturers and others complicit in rigging elections, Obi urged them to reflect on the roles they are playing in damaging Nigeria’s democratic foundation. He warned that their actions today could have dire consequences for their futures and those of their children.
The Consequences of Undermining Democracy
Obi’s message was not just a condemnation of the immediate impact of electoral fraud but a forecast of future consequences. He predicted that those responsible for undermining democracy would eventually face societal retribution. His warning emphasized that positions of authority are temporary, and the damage being inflicted on the country today will inevitably come full circle, affecting even the next generation.
“To the agencies and individuals being used to undermine our democracy simply because they hold positions of authority, please remember that your time in office is not eternal. The society that you are helping to destroy today will eventually take its revenge on you tomorrow,” he warned.
He urged those involved in the electoral malpractices to think deeply about the long-term impact of their actions. Specifically addressing lecturers and others involved in the rigging, Obi highlighted the far-reaching effects, not only for them but for their children.
“The damage you are causing today will inevitably take revenge on you tomorrow and affect your children in the future,” he said, stressing the gravity of their actions and the potential for a generational impact.
Commitment to a New Democratic Nigeria
Despite his strong critique of the electoral system, Peter Obi remains optimistic about the potential for change in Nigeria. He reiterated his vision of a new, truly democratic nation where elections are free from manipulation and power is not the ultimate goal.
"This kind of action has no place in a true democracy," he asserted. Obi emphasized that for him, politics is not about capturing power but about rescuing the country from its current path and ensuring that it works for all Nigerians, regardless of their backgrounds.
Obi concluded by reaffirming his commitment to building a better Nigeria. "I remain committed to building a new and truly democratic Nigeria, which I insist is very possible," he said.
Conclusion
Peter Obi’s remarks serve as both a critique of the current state of Nigerian politics and a call to action for those involved in perpetuating electoral malpractice. By highlighting the long-term consequences of such actions, he urges reflection and accountability from the key players involved. For Obi, the fight is not merely for political power but for the future of Nigeria's democracy and the well-being of its citizens.
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