Peter Obi, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and 2023 presidential candidate, says Nigerians will not accept what he described as the “suffocation of democracy” in the country.
Obi spoke on Wednesday via his X handle after participating in a “Save Democracy” protest held in Abuja alongside key opposition figures.
Among those present at the protest were Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso, as well as other leaders and members of the ADC.
The protest came on the heels of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s decision to derecognise the ADC leadership led by David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, who serve as national chairman and secretary of the party, respectively.
The former Anambra governor said the demonstration, convened under the leadership of Mark, was aimed at defending democratic values and resisting attempts to stifle opposition voices.
He described the protest as both a civic duty and a moment of national reflection, noting that Nigeria’s democratic journey appears to be regressing despite past sacrifices made to entrench civil rule.
Obi warned that those undermining democratic institutions and silencing dissent would ultimately be judged harshly by history, adding that the struggle for a functional democracy must not be abandoned for political convenience.
“We will not remain silent, we will not be intimidated, and we will not surrender the future of this nation,” he said, insisting that the will of the people must prevail “stronger, louder, and impossible to suppress.”
