Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s (LP) presidential candidate, delivered his first public address to Nigerians and the world since the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) announced the results of Nigeria’s “tightest” presidential elections.
On March 1, 2023, at 4:10 a.m., INEC declared the candidate of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as President-Elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The declaration has elicited mixed reactions, particularly from supporters of the leading opposition parties in the tight presidential race.
In his first address to the Nigerian public and press since the elections, Peter Obi requested a minute’s silence in memory of Nigerians who died or were injured in the general elections.
Peter Obi asks for the observance of one minute silence for all those who have lost their lives or been attacked during this electioneering period.#CTVTweets pic.twitter.com/FcQuJan3oX
— Channels Television (@channelstv) March 2, 2023
He began his speech by thanking Nigerians for turning out to exercise their franchise on February 25th, 2023.
6 key points from his speech.
His message to the youths and the Obi-dients.
I appreciate all of their efforts. Thank you to the OBIdients, the youths, and those who believe that a new Nigeria is possible. As I have said to them, a new Nigeria is possible, and we will work for it. Their determination and hard work for a new Nigeria should not waver. Datti and I are still dedicated to the New Nigeria. I can imagine how they feel now, given how quickly the elections have passed. Even in the face of unjustified barbaric attacks, Nigerians’ commitment and resilience demonstrate that a new Nigeria is possible. When I see people like Lady Jennifer, who was stabbed but insisted on voting, it gives me hope that a new Nigeria is possible.
On the conduct of the elections.
The election that we just witnessed was held as planned, and the results were announced. It is a clear violation of the electoral rules and guidelines that were promised to us. As you are aware, this election did not meet the bare minimum of free, transparent, credible, and fair elections. It will be remembered as one of the most contentious elections ever held in Nigeria.
His appeal to Nigerians.
However, let me humbly and respectfully appeal to all Nigerians to remain peaceful, law-abiding citizens who conduct themselves responsibly. Please know that Datti and I, and indeed all of us, are safe. This is not the end, but rather the beginning of the journey to birth a new Nigeria.
His commitment to the project of a “New Nigeria”
Datti Baba Ahmed and I are unafraid and deeply committed to the project of a new Nigeria founded on honesty, transparency, fairness, justice, and equity. All of this begins with the process. The process by which people are elected is far more fundamental and important than what they do afterward. It is my belief, which I have consistently maintained, that if you must respond to your excellency, the process by which you arrive at the office must be excellent.
A new Nigeria is possible, and I will work for that new Nigeria… Datti and I remain committed to that new Nigeria.
-Peter Obi#CTVTweets pic.twitter.com/3qkSPRJ5eH
— Channels Television (@channelstv) March 2, 2023
It is my belief that for you to answer “you excellency”, the process through which you arrive to office must be “excellent”.
-Peter Obi#CTVTweets pic.twitter.com/jU5Fa2LpAE
— Channels Television (@channelstv) March 2, 2023
His commitment to recovering “Our Mandate”
Let me reiterate and assure the good people of Nigeria, that we will explore all legal peaceful options to reclaim our mandate. We won the election and we will prove it to Nigerians.
He urged Nigerians to participate in the Gubernatorial and State assembly elections on March 11.
Please do not give up. Elections are scheduled for November 11th. I implore you to go out and campaign, encouraging people to vote again in that election. I assure you that I will participate. I assure you that nothing will deter me from working for a better future in this country. Datti’s commitment, and my commitment, are both total. You can be confident that your contributions will not go unnoticed.
Come out and vote in the (March 11) election, please come out and be part of the elections. I assure you that I will be a part of it, and I am totally committed to a better future for this country.
-Peter Obi#CTVTweets pic.twitter.com/ps8W2CxWk5
— Channels Television (@channelstv) March 2, 2023
Watch the full press briefing below:
Full Video: "We won this election and we will prove it to Nigerians. We shall reclaim our mandate via due process. I urge Nigerians to remain resolute." – His Excellency Peter Gregory Obi addresses the world press conference in Abuja today. pic.twitter.com/7JR1JOHkM7
— Jaypee (@JaypeeGeneral) March 2, 2023
