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| Mr. Peter Obi |
Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has warned against undermining the nation’s institutions for political ends.
Speaking after the Federal High Court’s June 15, 2026 ruling that deregistered several parties, including the ADC, Obi said such actions harm the country’s progress.
“The nation prospers when institutions are strong and independent, not when they are turned into tools of partisan interest,” Obi said. He urged political actors to protect and respect institutional integrity, arguing that politicization weakens public trust and threatens democratic stability.
Obi called for calm and constructive dialogue, and he appealed to the judiciary, political leaders, and civil society to work together to preserve institutional credibility and the democratic process.
Writing on his X handle, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate said, "When the controversy surrounding the removal of the former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, unfolded, I expressed a concern to a friend: that the greatest damage might not be immediate, but the message it sends about the sanctity and independence of our institutions to the world."
"Strong economies are built on trust. Investors can manage security risks, policy risks, and even market risks. What they fear most is uncertainty in the rule of law and a judiciary that is perceived to be vulnerable to political pressure.
"Today, many Nigerians have lost confidence in systems that should protect them. Businesses increasingly request that their contracts be governed by foreign jurisdictions because they have greater confidence in those institutions than in our own. That should concern every patriot.
"We must never sacrifice our sacred institutions on the altar of politics. Nations rise when institutions are stronger than individuals. The Federal High Court judgment ordering the de-registration of the ADC and other political parties is just one of those activities that further reduces the common man's trust in our legal systems. It should be reversed."
“I pledge that we will restore the dignity, independence, and integrity of the judiciary. The common man must have a voice. The business community must be protected from legal uncertainty and intimidation. Justice must be impartial, accessible, and respected by all.
"To our judges, legal luminaries, senior advocates, and lawyers: this is your moment. Rise, defend the rule of law, take back your country! A new Nigeria is possible,” Obi concluded.
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