The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has said Nigeria is facing a serious morality crisis, accusing some academics, lawyers and religious leaders of contributing to bad governance.
Obi made the remarks while speaking at a public event in Bauchi State on Tuesday, August 11, 2026.
The former Anambra State governor recalled his experience challenging the outcome of an election in court, saying judges he had never met ruled in his favour at both the tribunal and Court of Appeal.
According to Obi, such judicial independence has become increasingly difficult to find in the country.
He expressed concern that professors who should be at the forefront of promoting integrity and knowledge are now allegedly involved in helping uneducated individuals manipulate elections.
Obi also criticised lawmakers over changes to electoral laws, as well as some Senior Advocates of Nigeria whom he accused of defending electoral forgery.
He further faulted religious leaders for allegedly seeking blessings for politicians accused of criminal activities.
“I was in court for three years challenging my election. Five judges that I never met for one day gave judgment in my favour. It cannot happen in Nigeria of today. I went to the Court of Appeal, and five judges I never met gave judgment in my favour.
“So, if you look at that and look at what is happening today in Nigeria, where professors are now aiding illiterates to rig elections, where our lawmakers have removed forgery as an offence in electoral matters, and Senior Advocates of Nigeria are defending forgery, our religious leaders are now praying for criminal politicians for blessings. We have a crisis.
“And above all, our judges are now singing on your mandate,” Obi said.
