The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the ability of Nigerian voters to protect their votes during the 2027 general elections, saying the credibility of the poll remains more important to him than its eventual outcome.

Obi made the statement at the weekend in Ogugu, Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, during the unveiling of Chief Peter Ameh as the NDC candidate for the Kogi East Senatorial District.

The former Anambra State governor urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to guarantee a free, transparent and credible election, warning against any attempt to manipulate the process in favour of a particular political party or candidate.

According to him, Nigerians must be allowed to freely choose their leaders and have their votes duly reflected in the final results.

“I am not worried about what the outcome of the 2027 general election will be. What worries me is the people and how they will protect their votes on election day,” Obi said.

He maintained that the country’s prevailing economic hardship, hunger and poverty should compel political leaders to focus on addressing the challenges confronting ordinary Nigerians rather than engaging in political manoeuvring.

“There is hunger and poverty in the land, and that is why I came here to see what we can do to ameliorate the suffering of our people,” he said.

Obi charged Nigerians to remain vigilant during the election and ensure that their votes count, stressing that citizens should elect leaders capable of addressing the country’s pressing challenges.

“My charge to the people is that they must ensure a free, fair and credible election. This time around, our votes must count. Nigerians must elect those who will lead them,” he added.

The NDC presidential candidate also called on politicians to shift away from campaigns built around threats, propaganda and unfulfilled promises, advocating instead for issue-based engagement with voters.

He said the next administration must prioritise education, security and economic opportunities for Nigerians.

“We want to change the dynamics where politicians do not ask Nigerians about their problems. The next government must focus on getting our children back to school, securing our environment, and ensuring our people earn a decent living,” Obi said.

Also speaking, NDC’s Kogi East senatorial candidate, Peter Ameh, urged voters to take an active role in safeguarding the electoral process, insisting that protecting their votes is essential to securing accountable representation.

“Today, we are charging the people to go out, vote and protect their votes,” Ameh said.

He added that the quality of elected representatives would directly affect the availability of basic infrastructure and the prospects of future generations.

“It is through the votes they cast that we will have good roads, basic amenities, and secure the future of our children,” he said.

Ameh further urged the electorate to scrutinise the records and competence of candidates before casting their ballots, stressing the need to elect representatives capable of effectively articulating their interests at the National Assembly.