Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has declared that Nigeria is no longer a democratic nation, lamenting the decline of democratic principles under the current administration. He made this statement at the New Nigeria Youth Summit 2025, organized by the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) in Abuja.
As the keynote speaker, Obi stated, “Nigeria today is not democratic, let no one deceive you. Democracy is defined as government of the people, by the people, and for the people. None of these elements exist in Nigeria today.”
He emphasized the importance of scrutinizing candidates ahead of the next election, urging citizens to question the backgrounds and intentions of those seeking their votes.
Obi called for Nigerian youths to mobilize, warning that disorganization perpetuates the country’s crises. He stressed the need for competence-based leadership in future elections, criticizing past voting patterns driven by tribal and religious affiliations.
The former Anambra State governor accused the government of failing to fulfill promises, particularly regarding electricity supply and employment, stating, “They promised uninterrupted power, but all we see are rising tariffs.”
Senator Nenadi Usman, acting National Chairman of the Labour Party, echoed Obi’s concerns, questioning whether Nigeria’s current system honors the sacrifices of pro-democracy martyrs like MKO Abiola.
She urged urgent youth-led action, stating, “Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; you are the leaders of now.”
COPDEM’s National Chairman, Prince Rwang Pam, warned that neglecting the youth could lead to unrest, noting that “a silent anger is brewing.”
The summit aimed to enhance youth engagement in political processes and featured political leaders, activists, and young innovators advocating for the preservation of Nigeria’s democracy.
