Former governor of Anambra, Mr Peter Obi, has urged the INEC, the national electoral umpire, to ensure a credible governorship election in the state on Saturday.
Obi made the call on Wednesday while speaking with newsmen after a visit to the College of Nursing, Adazi Nnukwu, in Anaocha Local Government Area (LGA).
He also visited the University on the Niger Teaching Hospital, Iyienu, Ogidi, in Idemili North LGA.
The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate advised against vote-buying or other acts capable of compromising the outcome of the exercise.
He described the gubernatorial candidates as his friends whom he respects, but noted that his loyalty remained with his party’s candidate, Dr George Moghalu.
“All those involved in the exercise, in one way or another, are my friends. I have respect for all of them.
“But as a member of the Labour Party, I’m supporting my party’s candidate, though not to the extent of vote buying or any other malpractice.
“Let everyone vote according to their conscience. All I want is a free, fair, and credible election,” he said.
Reacting to the issue of state creation, Obi described the plan as unnecessary, stressing that what Nigeria needs is to function effectively as a nation.
“Creation of states is not our problem. We need to make Nigeria work first, not keep creating more states, ministries, and other structures,” he said.
Obi, who donated ₦15 million each to the health institutions, said he had dedicated his life to uplifting humanity.
“I believe life must have a purpose, and mine is to support people and uplift humanity. I go around Nigeria supporting schools because education and health are critical.
“The key measure of development globally is life expectancy and Nigeria’s is just 54, among the lowest in the world.
“We must invest in health and nurses are the human capital for that investment,” he said.
Obi commended the proprietor of the College and Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor.
(NAN)
