The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Party, Peter Obi, has said he is prepared to die for Nigeria, insisting that leadership in the face of worsening insecurity requires ultimate sacrifice and total commitment.
Mr Obi made the statement during a recent appearance on the Black Box interview on Nevon HQ with journalist Rufai Oseni, where he was questioned on how he would respond to kidnapping, killings, and attacks on security personnel across the country.
When asked if he was ready to die for Nigeria, Obi responded, “Yes.”
“One government must be in charge”
The former Anambra State governor said his experience in office showed that decisive leadership was key to defeating criminal networks.
“I have fought criminality in Anambra. Commitment solves the problem for everybody,” he said.
Mr Obi recalled that during his tenure, notorious kidnapping gangs were forced out of the state, citing admissions from a suspected criminal known as Vance, who allegedly confirmed that operations became difficult under his administration.
“One government. It’s either I’m in charge or they’re in charge. One person must be in charge,” he said.
“We declare war. If you’re ready to lead, you must be ready to die. If you’re not ready to die, go home.”
Commitment to national service
Mr Obi insisted that his identity as a Nigerian overrides any personal or political considerations abroad.
“Tomorrow. If I’m outside this country and there’s war, I’ll come back. I’m a Nigerian… I’m ready to die here,” he stated.
He argued that effective leadership requires courage and readiness to confront insecurity directly rather than relying solely on theoretical plans.
Nigeria has continued to battle widespread insecurity, including banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on schools and security personnel in several states.
Recent incidents include the abduction of 40 students and teachers in Oyo State and the killing of a teacher during the attack, while others remain missing.
In another case, former military spokesperson Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.) was abducted alongside his wife in Katsina State in May 2026; he was later confirmed dead, while his wife was rescued.
Mr Obi referenced Nigeria’s past role in international peacekeeping missions, noting that the country once contributed troops to conflicts in Liberia, Sudan, and Kuwait.
He argued that restoring national security requires leadership that is willing to take responsibility and confront threats directly, stressing that commitment remains the most critical factor in addressing insecurity.
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