Obi Challenges Tinubu on Direct Engagement for 2027

Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), issued a statement cautioning Nigerians against electing an "absentee president" in the upcoming 2027 presidential election. He challenged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to personally engage with the electorate and defend his administration's record, rather than relying on ministers and political surrogates for his campaign.

The statement, released by the Peter Obi Media Office and signed by spokesman Idris Zekeri Jnr, emphasized that the election is a contest for the leadership of over 200 million Nigerians, necessitating direct interaction between candidates and voters. Obi criticized Tinubu's absence from the National Peace Accord convened by the National Peace Committee, stating it undermined efforts for peaceful elections.

He called for candidates to explain their policies and achievements directly to Nigerians, asserting that the election should focus on candidates' competence and character rather than their political surrogates. Obi concluded by urging Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress to abandon "proxy campaigns" and engage directly with the populace.