In a statement shared on his X account, Obi said the question became necessary in light of Nigeria’s current challenges and the responsibilities of those in leadership.
He recalled that while completing his nomination form with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), a question asking whether he had ever been adjudged a lunatic or declared to be of unsound mind prompted him to reflect on the conduct of Nigeria’s political leaders.
According to Obi, the realities facing the country—including the abduction of citizens and security personnel, widespread insecurity on highways, rising hunger affecting millions of Nigerians, and the alleged diversion of billions of naira through non-existent agencies and projects—raise concerns about whether the nation’s leaders are demonstrating the qualities of sound-minded leadership.
He argued that any responsible leadership would have declared these challenges a national emergency and immediately mobilised security agencies, experts, community leaders, and other relevant stakeholders to address them.
“At a moment like this, the survival, security, and stability of Nigeria must take precedence over every other consideration,” Obi said, adding that the country needs decisive action rather than political calculations or partisan interests.
The former Anambra State governor also advocated greater transparency in Nigeria’s electoral process, citing another question in the INEC nomination form that asks candidates whether they have ever presented forged certificates to the electoral body.
Obi said INEC should, in the interest of strengthening public confidence in elections, publish the academic certificates and other credentials submitted by all candidates seeking elective office.
He maintained that transparency would deepen democracy and enhance public trust, stressing that Nigeria’s challenges are too grave for “politics as usual.”
Obi concluded by urging leaders to embrace competence, character, capacity, compassion, and commitment to service, reiterating his campaign message that “A New Nigeria is Possible.”