Former Anambra governor Peter Obi and ex-Kano governor Rabiu Kwankwaso have urged aspirants of the National Democratic Congress to steer clear of greed, vote-buying, and self-interest as political activity builds toward 2027.

The message was delivered on May 16, 2026, at an aspirants’ summit in Abuja hosted by the Obidient and Kwankwasiyya movements. Obi was represented by Peter Ameh, former chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, while Kwankwaso’s message was conveyed by Moshood Shittu, who coordinated his 2023 presidential campaign.

At the event, speakers pushed for a shift toward accountability and policy-focused campaigns. Obi’s representative said the country needs leaders who put public service above personal gain, and warned against letting ethnicity or personal ambition dictate politics. He noted that betraying voters after elections erodes trust in democracy.

Kwankwaso’s representative said Nigeria’s challenges persist partly because few leaders are willing to make sacrifices or be truthful with citizens. He called for commitment to national interest over sectional loyalty.

The summit followed the recent defection of Obi and Kwankwaso to the NDC after leaving the African Democratic Congress. At their formal registration in Abuja, they also advised party members to avoid internal litigation, arguing that court battles have weakened opposition platforms in the past.