Former presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi has cautioned that Nigeria risks increased political violence if individuals with forged certificates are allowed to contest elections.

Speaking on Sunday, Obi said permitting candidates with falsified qualifications to seek public office undermines public trust and weakens confidence in leadership. He stressed that credibility and integrity must remain fundamental requirements for anyone aspiring to hold political office.

“If we keep accepting forged certificates in our elections, violence may become the future of our democracy,” he warned, adding that electoral integrity is essential to safeguarding the country’s democratic system.

The former governor of Anambra State made the remarks in response to the recent attack on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) secretariat in Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State, where suspected political thugs reportedly vandalized property and disrupted an event. Obi described the incident as “an assault on democracy itself.”

He noted that incidents ranging from certificate forgery to politically motivated attacks reflect a decline in democratic standards and, if not addressed, could heighten tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Obi urged Nigerians to demand accountability and ensure thorough vetting of candidates, stating that the prospects for peaceful elections depend on electing qualified and credible leaders.