I won’t rule by decree—Nigerians will feel the difference, says Peter Obi

Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has reassured Nigerians that if elected president, he would not govern with authoritarian tendencies but through constitutional, accountable, and people-centred leadership.

Speaking at a public engagement in Lagos, Obi said:

“If I become president, I won’t rule by decree. Nigerians will feel the difference. We will operate an open, democratic system where people are part of the solution, not sidelined from it.”

He added that Nigeria’s problems require competent leadership, not coercion, and that true governance is about serving, not controlling.

Obi’s comments come amid growing public discontent over economic hardship and concerns about executive overreach at various levels of government. His message appears aimed at reinforcing his reputation for prudence, empathy, and institutional respect.