Political analyst Dr. Reuben Abati has urged Nigerians to prioritize competence over ethnicity or religion in choosing leaders, warning that superficial promises will not solve the nation’s challenges.
Speaking on Arise TV on August 4, 2025, Abati emphasized that Nigeria’s progress depends on a politically educated electorate that rejects divisive voting patterns and empty rhetoric.
“Nigerians must vote for a competent person regardless of where he comes from or his religion,” Abati said.
“All this ‘I will do one term, I will serve you food,’ that’s not going to work.”
His remarks appear to critique populist pledges, such as Peter Obi’s recent vow to serve a single four-year term if elected president in 2027, which has drawn both support and skepticism.
Abati highlighted Nigeria’s economic woes, including a N121 trillion public debt and 96% of 2024 revenue spent on debt servicing, as consequences of poor leadership choices driven by tribal and religious biases.
He criticized lavish spending on projects like the N712 billion Murtala Muhammed International Airport renovation, urging voters to demand candidates with proven track records and actionable plans.
“Competence, not slogans, will move Nigeria forward,” Abati said, pointing to the need for transparency and accountability in governance.
He called on Nigerians to scrutinize candidates’ policies ahead of the 2027 elections, warning against falling for charismatic but substance.
