Peter Obi Urges Editors to Scrutinise Politicians, Safeguard Nigeria’s Democracy

Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of the NDC, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerian editors to remain fearless in scrutinising politicians and defending the country’s democracy.

Obi made the appeal while addressing participants at the 22nd All Nigeria Editors Conference organised by the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) in Enugu State.

The conference, themed “The Ballot, The Media and the Task of Keeping Democracy Alive,” brought together editors and media executives from across the country to discuss the future of democracy and the role of the press.

In a statement posted on his X account on Sunday, Obi said editors occupy a unique position in society and should use it to ensure those seeking public office are thoroughly examined.

He said editors should continue to hold political leaders accountable by investigating their records and demanding excellence from everyone aspiring to lead the country.

“I called on our editors to continue to reinforce their role as bulwarks protecting our democracy,” Obi said.

He added: “Editors must continue to scrutinise the qualifications and past records of those seeking public office, expose past wrongdoings and ensure that the Nigerian people have access to the information they need to make informed decisions.”

Obi also reminded political office holders and aspirants that leadership comes with responsibility.

“Leaders must exemplify the best values of society,” he said.

According to him, the conference also gave him the opportunity to engage editors during a question-and-answer session, where they exchanged views on the challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy and the media’s responsibility in sustaining democratic governance.

He thanked the Nigerian Guild of Editors for inviting him to the conference and wished the association a successful event.

The former governor has consistently maintained that a vibrant and independent media is essential to good governance, transparency and accountability, insisting that informed citizens are critical to building a stronger democracy.