By Obinna Uballa
Following the outcome of the by-elections held in some states on Saturday, former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians to take ownership of the country’s future by registering and collecting their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released on Monday titled “PVC is the bridge to a New Nigeria”, Obi described the PVC as the most effective tool for defeating bad governance and curbing electoral malpractice.
“I want to plead with every Nigerian, young and old, to heed this call to action. The future of our dear nation is in your hands. The greatest strength of democracy is in the voter’s card,” Obi said.
He described the PVC as “the voice of the voiceless, the shield of the weak, and the weapon of the poor,” urging Nigerians to organise themselves and “make election rigging difficult” by actively participating in the process.
The former Anambra governor cautioned citizens against selling their votes, stressing that politicians who buy votes are only investing in corruption.
“They buy votes so they can buy their way into our treasury to steal public money. Such people are not leaders; they are criminals in disguise,” he said.
Obi warned that vote selling amounts to mortgaging the future, noting that it robs citizens of access to quality education, healthcare, and jobs.
“To those who sell their votes, you are not just selling an election, you are selling the opportunities that would have lifted you and your family out of poverty,” he added.
According to him, rescuing Nigeria rests in the hands of voters.
“Our democracy is at stake. That is why I urge every eligible Nigerian to register, collect, and safeguard your PVC, and when the time comes, use it wisely. Vote for leaders of competence, character, capacity, and compassion,” Obi said.
He urged Nigerians to demonstrate that true power lies with the people and not corrupt politicians “who trade our future for selfish gain.”
