I Don’t Want to Hear Any Nigerian Politician Say They Fear for Their Life

Peter Obi says he may not be alive to contest the 2027 election, claiming that his activities are being deliberately frustrated and that opposition figures are under pressure. He also clarified that he was not making a direct accusation against the government but describing what he sees as persistent intimidation. (Punch Newspapers)

Whether you support Peter Obi or President Tinubu is beside the point.

What concerns me is this: no democracy should reach a point where a leading opposition figure publicly says they fear they may not live long enough to contest an election.

If Obi’s fears are unfounded, the government should respond with transparency and facts, not political insults.

If there is any truth to his concerns, then every Nigerian should be worried, because democracy only works when opposition politicians can campaign freely and safely.

I want elections to be decided by votes—not by fear, intimidation, or public suspicion.

The Tinubu administration has a responsibility to ensure that every political leader, regardless of party, can participate safely in the democratic process. That is not a favour to Peter Obi—it is a duty owed to every Nigerian.

Strong democracies don’t silence opposition.

They defeat them at the ballot box.