The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has insisted that he won Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election, alleging that the outcome was rigged. Speaking in a video interview, Obi said the 2027 general election would not simply be a contest between political parties but “between Nigerians and the Tinubu administration.” His comments reflect his long-standing position challenging the 2023 presidential outcome, which was officially declared in favour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Former Anambra State Governor and NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi has renewed his claim that he was the rightful winner of the 2023 presidential election, maintaining that the result announced by INEC did not reflect the will of Nigerian voters.
Speaking in a video that has circulated widely on social media, Obi also declared that the 2027 election would represent a broader struggle between ordinary Nigerians and the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
During the interview, Obi reiterated that he believes he secured victory in the 2023 presidential poll.
According to him, the election outcome was manipulated, a position he has consistently maintained since the conclusion of the polls.
He argued that Nigerians deserve an electoral process that reflects the genuine wishes of voters and expressed confidence that citizens would play a decisive role in determining the country’s future in 2027.
Obi described the next presidential election as more than a contest between candidates.
He said the election would effectively be between Nigerians seeking change and the incumbent administration, adding that issues affecting citizens’ daily lives would shape voter decisions.
The former governor urged Nigerians to remain committed to democratic participation and the defence of credible elections.
Following the 2023 presidential election, INEC declared Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the winner.
Obi challenged the result through the courts, alleging widespread irregularities, but the election outcome was upheld by Nigeria’s judicial process. He has nevertheless continued to publicly insist that the election did not reflect the true votes cast.
Obi’s latest remarks come as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election continue to gather momentum, with major parties and opposition figures increasingly outlining their positions.
His comments are expected to fuel further debate over electoral reforms, transparency and public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
While Peter Obi maintains that he won the 2023 election, the official outcome declared by INEC and affirmed through the courts remains that President Bola Tinubu was elected. With campaigns gradually taking shape ahead of 2027, disagreements over the last presidential election are likely to remain a major feature of Nigeria’s political discourse.