TheCable

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, has called on the judiciary to reaffirm its independence and integrity through election cases.

Obi, in a Twitter thread on Monday, asked Nigerians to remain peaceful and law-abiding, adding that the country is in a critical situation.

The former Anambra governor said he believes a new Nigeria is possible, adding that he will never depart from his “original commitment”.

“We expect that the Nigerian judiciary will use the election cases now before it to reaffirm its independence and integrity. It has to do so, for all our sakes and for itself,” he said.

“Nigerians must, therefore, remain peaceful and law abiding. No matter the depth of anyone’s reservations about what is going on in the polity today, no matter the real and imagined provocations, and no matter the disagreement out there, we should remember that this will not last forever.

“I remain committed, and untiring, in my determination to work with like-minded fellow Nigerians to end the curse of missed opportunities and squandered hope that has become our lot here.

“I will never shrink from that original commitment, because I firmly believe that we must change from the present politics of criminality, and corruption, in order to make a new Nigeria possible.

“I call on fellow Nigerians, especially the youths to remain steadfast, calm, patient, and peaceful. Our journey may be long and difficult but it is worth it in every way. Victory is assured.

“We have to work together to move our beautiful country from corruption and criminality to a centre of productivity rather than aimless consumption.”

Obi alleged that there are plans to malign him, impugn his character and dent his integrity.

“I am aware of some evil designs being hatched against me and my supporters in the coming months. Efforts will be made to taint my image. Campaigns of calumny are being perfected to defame my character and diminish my hard-earned integrity,” he said.

“These schemes will aim at degrading our support base and confusing the public. But, no evil campaign will alter the substance of my character; nor diminish my patriotic commitment to a better Nigeria.”