Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has stated that election manipulation persists in Nigeria largely because citizens fail to adequately protect their votes during the electoral process.

Speaking during a recent visit to Washington, D.C., Obi emphasized that while political leaders and stakeholders have responsibilities in ensuring credible elections, ordinary Nigerians also play a crucial role in safeguarding democracy.

According to the former Anambra State governor, he is prepared to do everything within his capacity to help protect votes ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, he stressed that the ultimate responsibility rests with voters themselves.

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Obi argued that votes are more likely to be protected when voters remain at their polling units after casting their ballots and monitor the counting process.

He maintained that many electoral irregularities occur because citizens leave immediately after voting, creating opportunities for manipulation.

According to him, active civic participation is essential if Nigerians want their votes to accurately reflect the will of the people.

“Elections are rigged in Nigeria because Nigerians want it to be rigged. I will do whatever is possible to protect votes come 2027 election, but it is now left for Nigerians to decide if their votes will count,” Obi said.

He added that voters should insist on transparency throughout the voting and counting process rather than relying solely on political actors or institutions.

The former presidential candidate urged Nigerians to adopt a more proactive approach to democratic participation.

He argued that protecting votes requires more than casting ballots, noting that citizens must also observe the process until results are properly recorded and announced.

According to Obi, sustained voter engagement at polling centres can significantly reduce opportunities for electoral malpractice.

“Because if you vote and stay in your polling unit and insist your votes must count, it will be counted,” he stated.

Obi also linked Nigeria’s broader challenges to issues of leadership and governance.

He suggested that the quality of leadership that emerges from elections is directly influenced by the willingness of citizens to defend the integrity of the electoral process.

The former governor lamented what he described as a tendency among some voters to disengage after voting and then expect positive outcomes without active participation in the democratic process.

He emphasized that meaningful national development depends on credible elections, accountability, and citizen involvement.

As political activities gradually build toward the 2027 general elections, Obi’s remarks are likely to fuel ongoing discussions about electoral reforms, voter responsibility, and the measures needed to strengthen democratic institutions in Nigeria.