Donald Duke Advocates Merit-Based Governance for 2027

Donald Duke, the presidential candidate of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP) for the 2027 general election, defended his leadership credentials on Wednesday, stating that his tenure as governor of Cross River State from 1999 to 2007 reflects a commitment to building strong institutions and promoting merit. He expressed that if elected president, his administration would move away from political patronage, focusing instead on appointing competent Nigerians to key government positions.

Duke articulated that governance should prioritize competence over political loyalty, insisting that every appointee must aim to leave the country better than they found it. He highlighted the necessity for visionary leadership to address Nigeria's current challenges, advocating for comprehensive economic reforms, including a redesign of the financial system to enhance productivity and reduce borrowing costs.

Duke criticized high interest rates, rising public debt, and poor government spending, calling for increased investments in electricity, agriculture, healthcare, education, and the judiciary to foster economic growth and improve citizens' welfare.