Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, says violence may become the future of Nigeria’s democracy if politicians seeking elective positions are allowed to present forged certificates during elections.
“The ability for individuals to present forged certificates for election sends a troubling message to our society,” the politician stated in a statement on Sunday. “If we continue down this path, violence may become the future of our democracy.”
Mr Obi stated that the non-recognition of qualification, certificate and credibility as necessary requirements for candidates seeking elective offices further highlights the plummeting leadership standards in the country.
He added, “In the current state of Nigeria, what can we expect when leadership standards have plummeted to the extent that qualification, certification, and credibility are no longer deemed necessary for public office?”
The African Democratic Congress chieftain further condemned attacks on the party office in Bakassi, noting the development reflected how dangerously low the country’s democratic standards had fallen.
“What occurred at the ADC office in Bakassi, Cross River state, is not merely an attack on a political party; it is an attack on democracy itself.
“When thugs can storm a party office and destroy property without facing arrest, it reflects how dangerously low our democratic standards have fallen,” Mr Obi stated.
The politician reiterated that fraud and violence cannot create true leadership, adding that they will only result in chaos, which will ultimately affect our children and us.
