Peter Obi Warns Against Harassment of Supporters Before 2027

Former Anambra State governor and presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned what he described as the intimidation of members of his political movement, warning that peaceful conduct should never be mistaken for weakness.

Speaking as political activities gradually gather pace ahead of the 2027 general elections, Obi appealed to political actors and their supporters to respect the democratic rights of Nigerians to freely associate with any political group of their choice.

According to information obtained by OBGist, Obi said supporters of his movement should be allowed to participate in the country's democratic process without fear of harassment or intimidation.

Addressing those he accused of targeting his supporters, Obi stressed that humility and civility remain strengths rather than signs of vulnerability.

"For those harassing our supporters, innocent Nigerians who want food, humility and civility are not weaknesses. They are virtues. Nobody has the monopoly of rascality," Obi said.

The former presidential candidate also urged politicians and their supporters to exercise restraint, cautioning against interpreting calmness as an inability to defend democratic rights.

"Good behaviour is not weakness; it is a virtue. I am warning and pleading with everybody. Enough is enough," he added.

Political Tension Builds Ahead of 2027

OBGist understands that Obi's remarks come at a time when political parties are beginning to position themselves for the next general election. Although the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to formally commence the election timetable, political consultations, alliances and public engagements have intensified across the country.

Political observers say the period leading to the 2027 elections is expected to witness increased competition among parties seeking to expand their support base, making calls for peaceful political participation particularly significant.

Nigeria's Constitution guarantees citizens the right to freedom of association and peaceful political participation, while electoral stakeholders have repeatedly urged political parties to avoid violence, intimidation and hate speech during political activities.

As preparations for the next electoral cycle continue, Obi maintained that Nigerians should be free to express their political preferences without facing threats or harassment.