The 2027 general election in Nigeria may not proceed as planned if Peter Obi is barred from appearing on the presidential ballot, warns Rev. Dr. Okechukwu Christopher Obioha, Leader of the Njiko Igbo Forum. His statement comes amid growing concerns over judicial consistency and political interference following a recent Federal High Court ruling that ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). The decision, delivered by Justice Isah Dashen in Lokoja on Friday, stemmed from a legal dispute over the use of a political party logo, which the Peace Movement Party (PMP) claims ownership of. The judge noted that the PMP was not included as a party in the original case, raising questions about procedural fairness.
Obioha expressed deep skepticism about the judiciary’s impartiality, accusing the current administration of undermining the institution since President Bola Tinubu assumed office. He told DAILY POST that public trust in the courts has eroded due to what he described as inconsistent rulings and perceived political influence. “The citizens of this country, the genuine citizens of this country, who are looking up to a democracy that will have aimed to be sustained and maintained are not looking at the courts at all,” he said. He emphasized that the judiciary, as a pillar of democracy, has been weakened and needs urgent reinforcement.
The religious leader went further, warning that if Peter Obi is prevented from contesting in 2027, it could lead to a breakdown in the electoral process. “If Peter Obi is frustrated and is not on the ballot, there will be no election in 2027,” he stated firmly. He called it not a threat, but a prophecy, given the level of public frustration and the widespread belief that the system is broken. “We are tired of the system. We are tired. We are strangulated,” he added, underscoring the growing discontent among Nigerians.
Obioha’s remarks reflect broader anxieties about electoral integrity and political inclusion in Nigeria. The case involving the NDC and PMP has sparked debate over party registration rules and the role of the judiciary in political matters. As the 2027 election draws nearer, such developments are likely to influence voter sentiment and campaign strategies. The coming months will be critical in determining whether Nigeria can hold a credible, inclusive, and peaceful election, or if deepening divisions will continue to threaten national stability.
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