Nigeria Must Embrace Stronger, Law-Abiding Political Parties for Democracy to Thrive, Says Peter Obi At Book Launch

 

Voicing a bold vision for Nigeria’s political future, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has called for the establishment of political parties that surpass the limitations of electoral cycles and governmental influence. According to him, the future of Nigerian democracy lies in creating institutions that outlast individuals and prioritize national interest above transient power.

Obi made this statement during the public presentation of two books authored by renowned journalist Ike Abonyi. The event, which attracted key political figures, media professionals and intellectuals, marked the unveiling of The Bubbles of Nigeria’s Democracy: The Musings of a Nigerian Journalist and Wadata Wonders: Memoirs of a Partisan Journalist. Both books critically explore the workings of Nigeria’s democratic framework, media landscape and the political journey of the author.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s unstable political development, Obi emphasized the urgent need for parties to move beyond being mere platforms for contesting elections. He warned that until political institutions are stronger than those who run them, democracy will remain vulnerable to manipulation and abuse.

“We are working hard to build that new Nigeria where we are going to have political parties that will outlive us,” Obi said passionately. “Parties that are organised, that are built on solid ideology and values, and that are bigger than the government.”

He argued that many of the existing political platforms in Nigeria function more like temporary vehicles for power acquisition rather than stable institutions with long-term visions for national transformation. To change this trajectory, Obi stressed the need for discipline, structure and ideological clarity within parties. He believes that political organizations must develop a sense of accountability that extends far beyond electoral gains.

Highlighting the critical role of the media, Obi also charged journalists to leverage their understanding of Nigeria’s political complexities to educate the public. He encouraged experienced writers and media professionals to consistently produce thoughtful commentary that helps citizens grasp the nuances of governance and democracy.

“Ike Abonyi’s books are valuable because they do not only document events, but they provoke thought,” Obi said. “We need more journalists who are willing to tell the truth, who understand the system and are committed to deepening political awareness.”

Obi’s remarks appear to speak directly to the increasing concern over the fragility of Nigeria’s democratic institutions. Many observers have lamented the weakening of internal democracy within political parties, the rise of personality-driven politics and the absence of clear ideological direction. According to Obi, correcting these flaws begins with building parties that reflect collective aspirations and have the strength to hold even their most powerful members accountable.

The launch of Abonyi’s books offered a timely backdrop for Obi’s message. Both books capture decades of Nigeria’s political experience through the lens of journalism and personal participation. While The Bubbles of Nigeria’s Democracy explores the contradictions and inconsistencies in the nation’s democratic journey, Wadata Wonders offers a behind-the-scenes look at the power plays within Nigeria’s major political parties.

Several other notable figures at the event echoed Obi’s sentiments, stressing the need for political evolution in Nigeria. Speakers called on political actors to re-examine their commitment to democracy and take responsibility for shaping a future where political stability and development go hand in hand.

For Obi, the focus remains on building a system where values such as integrity, service and patriotism are not optional, but foundational. He reiterated that genuine change must begin with institutions that reflect the hopes of the people, rather than the ambitions of a few.

His remarks come at a time when public trust in political parties and government institutions is waning. Many citizens, especially the youth, have expressed frustration over the lack of transparency, accountability and genuine representation in the political space.

As conversations about reform continue to gain momentum, Obi’s call for a new kind of political party structure may serve as a guiding light for a generation eager for real transformation. With experienced journalists like Abonyi documenting the past and voices like Obi charting the path forward, Nigeria may be entering a new era of political introspection and institutional rebirth.