Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has shared his thoughts on why elections in Nigeria are often marred by allegations of rigging.
Speaking during a recent visit to Washington, D.C., Obi argued that Nigerians also have a role to play in ensuring that their votes count during elections.
“Elections are rigged in Nigeria because Nigerians want it to be rigged. I will do whatever is possible to protect votes come 2027 election, but it is now left for Nigerians to decide if their votes will count,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor stressed that citizens must remain at their polling units after casting their votes instead of leaving immediately.
He maintained that voter vigilance is one of the most effective ways to ensure credible elections and prevent manipulation of results.
“Because if you vote and stay in your polling unit and insist your votes must count, it will be counted. But some Nigerians would rather vote and go home, then hours later go to night vigil to start praying, because they think they are the only ones God created,” he added.
Obi further argued that protecting votes should not be left to politicians alone, noting that citizens must actively participate in safeguarding the electoral process.
He concluded by stating that Nigeria’s biggest challenge remains leadership, a problem he believes can only be solved when citizens take ownership of the country’s democratic process.
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“Elections are rigged in Nigeria because Nigerians want it to be rigged. I will do whatever is possible to protect votes come 2027 election, but it is now left for Nigerians to decide if their votes will count. Because if you vote and stay in your polling unit and insist your… pic.twitter.com/cfhQK4ACdF
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) June 12, 2026