A New Nigeria Is Possible: Peter Obi Leads Youth-Centered Reform Call at CPD Democracy Summit
By Genesis ogiri
Abuja, Nigeria — The message resonated loudly from the Chelsea Hotel in Abuja: a new Nigeria is not just a dream—it is a demand. At the maiden summit of the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (CPD), political actors, civil society leaders, and youth advocates united around a single agenda—democratic restoration through youth inclusion, accountability, and active resistance to misgovernance.
Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi, emerged as the rallying voice, delivering a blistering critique of the Tinubu administration and a stirring call for a democratic rebirth led by the youth.
In his keynote speech, Obi condemned the reported ₦38 billion renovation of the International Conference Centre (ICC), describing it as a symbol of misplaced priorities and corruption.
“The ICC should fund its own renovation from generated revenue. Where is the accountability? Where is the transparency?” he demanded.
Beyond fiscal issues, Obi spoke directly to the state of the nation’s democracy, saying:
“There is no real democracy in Nigeria today. The leadership structure has been bastardized, and the people’s voices are being silenced or manipulated.”
He accused the ruling APC government of sowing confusion within opposition parties, including Labour and the PDP, in a bid to undermine democratic competition and consolidate unchecked power.
Reaffirming his movement’s mantra that “A New Nigeria Is Possible”, Obi emphasized that young Nigerians must be at the forefront of governance reforms, not as tokens but as leaders.
“This country belongs to the youth. We cannot postpone their future any longer. Their participation in policymaking, governance, and national development is not optional—it is essential,” Obi said.
He encouraged the youth not to be discouraged by previous electoral shortcomings, assuring them that their votes will count and that mechanisms will be put in place to ensure electoral justice.
“We will pursue every legal and democratic strategy to ensure this country works for the many, not the privileged few,” he added.
CPD Chairman Warns: “Silent Anger Is Building”
Backing Obi’s concerns, CPD National Chairman Prince Rwang Pam issued a dire warning to Nigeria’s leadership:
“There is a silent anger growing among young people. They are watching, they are waiting, and if this anger is ignored, it could explode into unrest we cannot contain.”
Pam urged urgent attention to youth grievances—particularly unemployment, underfunded education, and political exclusion—stating that ignoring these issues risks destabilizing the country.
“The youth are not a threat; they are the hope. But when hope is ignored, it turns to despair,” he cautioned.
The CPD reaffirmed its commitment to building platforms that promote youth leadership, civic engagement, political awareness, and grassroots organizing. The summit concluded with a joint resolution to:
The summit marked a turning point in Nigeria’s democratic discourse — not just as a ceremonial gathering, but as a rallying cry for urgent political action. The CPD pledged to build sustainable platforms for youth leadership, civic engagement, and policy advocacy, while intensifying efforts to hold power accountable.
As Nigeria teeters between democratic aspiration and authoritarian drift, the message from Abuja was loud and clear: youth are not a liability—they are the solution. And according to Obi and other speakers, any democracy that shuts them out is already on the path to failure.
As the crowd dispersed, one sentiment echoed throughout the halls: the fight for Nigeria’s future is now.
“A new Nigeria is not just possible—it is necessary,” Obi declared. “And it will be built by the courage, energy, and convictions of its young people.”
