Former Labour Party presidential candidate and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, has said that no individual can determine in advance whether the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will conduct the 2027 general election fairly or otherwise. He urged Nigerians to allow the electoral umpire to carry out its constitutional responsibilities while remaining vigilant in defending the integrity of the electoral process.
Speaking during an interview, Obi said he preferred to judge the INEC chairman by his actions rather than speculation or public perception. According to him, it is impossible for anyone to predict whether the electoral commission’s leadership will “do right or wrong” until it begins implementing its constitutional mandate ahead of the 2027 elections.
The former Anambra State governor stressed that credible elections depend not only on the electoral commission but also on the willingness of the government to allow INEC to operate independently and without political interference. He called on all stakeholders—including political parties, civil society organisations and citizens—to remain committed to protecting Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Obi reiterated that his focus remains on promoting transparency, accountability and credible elections, adding that Nigerians must continue to demand a process in which every vote counts. He maintained that strengthening democratic institutions is more important than making assumptions about individuals occupying public office.
His remarks come amid growing political discussions ahead of the 2027 general election, with increasing public attention on the independence of INEC and the conduct of future polls. Political observers say confidence in the electoral process will depend largely on the commission’s ability to demonstrate fairness, transparency and impartiality throughout the election cycle.
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