Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has called on Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora to take collective responsibility for transforming the country, identifying systemic corruption and years of leadership failure as the primary drivers of Nigeria’s delayed development.
​Obi made these remarks on Saturday, October 17, 2026, during a diaspora town hall engagement held at the Midland Hotel in Manchester, United Kingdom. The event, organized by the UK chapter of the NDC Coalition, brought together professional groups, student delegates, and diaspora leaders across Europe.
​Addressing the audience, Obi emphasized that Nigeria’s developmental struggles are not rooted in a lack of human talent or natural resources, but rather in a persistent deficit of visionary and accountable leadership.
​”No nation can rise above the character, competence, capacity, and commitment of those entrusted with its leadership,” Obi stated. “What we are witnessing today is the cumulative cost of unchecked corruption and leadership failure. However, complaining alone will not rebuild our country, it requires our shared commitment and active involvement.”
​He urged the diaspora community not to distance themselves from political processes back home, highlighting that their skills, investments, and global exposure are vital to steering Nigeria toward financial stability and institutional integrity.
​Speaking on behalf of the candidate, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, Chief Spokesperson for the Obi Campaign Organization, outlined the platform’s core strategy for the upcoming general elections. Tanko noted that the NDC is building an inclusive, policy-driven coalition designed to tackle economic stagnation and insecurity.
​”Our campaign is anchored on shifting Nigeria from a consumer-driven economy to a productive one,” Tanko stated during a post-event press briefing at 6:30 PM. “Mr. Obi’s address in Manchester reinforces our commitment to transparency, good governance, and structured Diaspora civic participation as we prepare for 2027.”
​Obi concluded his address by urging citizens to view the 2027 general elections not as a routine political exercise, but as a crucial opportunity to demand accountable leadership and protect the integrity of the ballot.
​The event was attended by notable figures, including Senator Victor Umeh and representatives of various Nigerian socio-cultural organizations in the United Kingdom.
