ABUJA, Nigeria — Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over what he described as the steady erosion of confidence in Nigeria’s institutions, warning that actions perceived as weakening the rule of law could damage both public trust and investor confidence.
In a statement on Monday, Obi recalled concerns he raised during the controversy surrounding the removal of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, arguing that the long-term consequences of undermining institutions often extend beyond immediate political outcomes. According to him, strong economies are built on trust, and investors are more likely to be discouraged by uncertainty in the legal system than by security, market or policy risks.
Okay News reports that Obi cited the growing practice of businesses seeking to have contracts governed by foreign jurisdictions as evidence of declining confidence in Nigeria’s institutions. He said the trend should be a source of concern for citizens and policymakers, stressing that national progress depends on institutions being stronger than individuals.
The former Anambra State governor specifically criticised the recent Federal High Court judgment ordering the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political parties, describing it as another development that could further weaken public trust in the judiciary. He called for the decision to be reversed, arguing that confidence in the legal system must be protected.
Obi pledged support for efforts aimed at strengthening the independence and integrity of the judiciary, saying ordinary Nigerians and the business community require a legal system that is impartial, accessible and free from intimidation. He also urged judges, senior advocates, legal practitioners and other stakeholders within the justice sector to defend the rule of law and safeguard democratic institutions.
He maintained that restoring confidence in public institutions remains essential to Nigeria’s development, reiterating his belief that a stronger and more accountable system of governance is achievable.
