The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Party, Peter Obi, has said he is prepared to sacrifice his life for Nigeria if necessary, arguing that effective leadership requires courage and total commitment to tackling the country’s security challenges.
Key highlights:
- Peter Obi said he is willing to die for Nigeria.
- He argued that leaders must confront insecurity decisively.
- Obi cited his security record in Anambra State.
- He said strong political will can reduce crime.
- Obi called for committed and accountable leadership.
Speaking during an interview on the Black Box programme hosted by journalist Rufai Oseni on Nevon HQ, Obi stressed that leaders must be willing to confront insecurity head-on rather than shy away from difficult decisions.
Reflecting on his time as governor of Anambra State, Obi said his administration successfully confronted kidnapping and other violent crimes through determined action and political will.
“Commitment solves the problem for everybody,” he said, recalling efforts his government took to curb criminal activities in the state.
The former governor also referred to the case of a notorious kidnapper known as Vance, claiming the criminal had acknowledged that operating in Anambra became extremely difficult during his tenure because of the government’s firm approach to security.
Emphasising the importance of decisive leadership, Obi argued that only one authority can effectively control a state.
Read also:
- Atiku slams FG’s handling of kidnapping of Oyo schoolchildren, teachers
- Full names, photos of 46 Oyo school abductees emerge
- NUT demands immediate rescue of abducted Oyo teachers, pupils as kidnappers release disturbing video
“It’s either I’m in charge or they’re in charge. One person must be in charge. We declare war. If you’re ready to lead, you must be ready to die. If you’re not ready to die, go home,” he said.
When asked directly whether he would be willing to die for Nigeria, Obi responded in the affirmative.
“Yes. Tomorrow. If I’m outside this country and there’s war, I’ll come back. I’m a Nigerian. I’ve never had any reason to have any country’s passport. God created me a Nigerian, and I’m ready to die here,” he stated.
His remarks come against the backdrop of continued insecurity across parts of the country, including incidents of kidnapping, attacks on schools and assaults on security personnel.
Obi also expressed confidence that Nigeria could restore stability through committed leadership, pointing to periods when the country’s armed forces played prominent peacekeeping roles in nations such as Liberia and Sudan.
He maintained that the most important requirement for addressing insecurity is a leadership willing to act decisively, arguing that determination and accountability are essential to reversing the country’s security challenges.
