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Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party's (LP) candidate for president in the general election on February 25, stated that the "nation's democracy is deeply troubled, while its destiny remains uncertain and precarious."
Obi expressed concern that the nation is now living at a time when fundamental elements of democracy are undercut by widespread impunity, unrelenting violence, and bloodshed.
Obi expressed his regret on Sunday that "the country lacks selfless leaders committed to the national interest, sustainable development, and innovative thinking that offers every Nigerian freedom of choice of abode, protection of lives and property, and ordered liberties."
His remark is coming on the heels of the celebration of "June 12 Democracy Day" in Nigeria.
Obi emphasized that June 12 is the cornerstone of Nigerians' protracted collective path toward nationhood as a real democracy by noting that the world's governments and people applauded Nigerians' collective selection of the late Chief M. K. O. Abiola as a deserving leader for the country.
The former governor of Anambra State emphasized that even during military rule, Nigerians openly stated their preference for genuine democracy and a transparent voting process.
He regretted, nevertheless, that the mistrust between Nigerians and their leaders had persisted.
His message included the following quote: "Our collaborative selection of late Chief M. K. O. Abiola as a deserving leader for the nation was lauded by Nigerians and governments and peoples across the world. Therefore, June 12 is the foundation of our long, collaborative road to becoming a country with real democracy.
"The reality of our politics now, however, tells a different story. While the future of our country is still unclear and vulnerable, our democracy is profoundly challenged. Too many fundamental issues remain unresolved in our country.
"Above all, the government must uphold the social contract it has made with the people by providing for their needs, abiding by their wishes, and carrying out the obligations of responsible governance outlined in the constitution. This is how the government can respect and safeguard the institutions of the democratic state.
Respecting the law is one of the government's most important duties in this regard.
"Unfortunately, we now live at a time when widespread impunity, widespread violence, and bloodshed threaten these fundamental tenets of democracy. Nigerians' mistrust of their leaders is still growing.
"The trust and efficiency gaps in our most recent elections provide a very clear case for this malady. The goal of June 12 and a special Democracy Day is to motivate us to fix the mistakes from our most recent elections.
"This is the surest approach to regain the public's faith in the potential of our country and the promise of real democracy. However, I implore everyone to maintain trust in the democratic system's inherent ability to self-correct.
"I am steadfast and persuaded that a New Nigeria is POssible. Our desire for a country that is equitable, just, secure, and peaceful is not inconceivably utopian. Natural and human resources are abundant in our country.
"What we lack are selfless leaders who are dedicated to the national interest, sustainable development, and inventive thinking that provides every Nigerian with the freedom of choice of residence, protection of lives, property, and orderly liberties, regardless of race, religion, or socioeconomic strata.
"These aspirations are valid and attainable, and I hereby reaffirm to Nigerians my pledge that we will not give up in our fight to establish a government that will give them the priority they deserve."
