Former presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has warned that any attempt to rig the 2027 general election will be firmly resisted through lawful and legitimate means.

Obi made the declaration on Wednesday in Enugu while formally announcing his defection to the opposition coalition-backed African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The former Anambra State governor also called for the early verification of candidates’ academic credentials, noting that such a measure would help prevent pre-election disputes and strengthen the credibility of the electoral process.

According to Obi, some individuals who once benefited from Nigeria’s democratic system are now actively undermining it through intimidation and what he described as “gangsterism” against the opposition.

“We have all watched those who benefitted from our democracy now becoming accessories in its erosion, either through coercion or gangsterism against the opposition,” he said.

“We cannot allow this to continue, and we will resist it. Today, we see people openly celebrating electoral fraud.”

"Issuing a direct warning ahead of the 2027 polls. To those planning to rig elections in Nigeria, we are making it clear that we will resist it by every lawful and legitimate means available," Obi added.