Peter Obi, a presidential candidate in Nigeria, argues that election rigging continues because voters do not adequately protect their votes or stay to ensure results are properly recorded. In remarks reported during a visit to Washington, D.C., Obi says elections are rigged only when citizens allow it, arguing that political actors cannot secure credible polls without voter participation.
Obi calls on Nigerians to remain at polling units after casting their ballots and to monitor the counting process rather than leaving immediately. He also argues that many voters mistakenly rely on prayers instead of civic action, abandoning polling stations while results are being manipulated.
He further frames Nigeria’s challenge as leadership rather than a lack of resources, saying the country is endowed with human and natural assets but underperforms due to weak political leadership. Obi urges citizens at home and in the diaspora to insist on accountable leadership and take responsibility for demanding that votes count.
