The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Party, Peter Obi, has declared that he is prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for Nigeria, insisting that effective leadership requires courage, commitment and a willingness to confront the country’s security challenges head-on.
Obi made the remarks during an interview on the Black Box programme hosted on Nevon HQ by journalist Rufai Oseni, where he spoke extensively about the state of insecurity across the country.
Responding to questions about how he would tackle the abduction of schoolchildren, the killing of teachers and attacks on security personnel if elected president, the former Anambra State governor argued that leadership commitment is the key factor in restoring security.
“I have fought criminality in Anambra. Commitment solves the problem for everybody,” Obi said.
Drawing from his experience as governor, he recalled how criminal activities, including kidnapping, were significantly curtailed during his administration.
According to him, criminal elements were forced out of the state because government demonstrated clear determination to confront them.
Obi referenced comments allegedly made by a notorious kidnapper known as Vance, who reportedly admitted that operating in Anambra became difficult under his leadership.
“One government. 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 stated.
When asked directly whether he was personally willing to die for Nigeria, Obi answered in the affirmative.
“Yes,” he said.
“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.”
The former governor expressed concern about the growing influence of criminal groups and non-state actors across parts of the country, arguing that insecurity has reached a level where state authority is increasingly being challenged.
He maintained that Nigeria has the capacity to overcome its security challenges if leaders demonstrate the necessary political will and commitment.
Obi also highlighted the historical role of the Nigerian military in international peacekeeping missions, noting that Nigerian troops once earned global respect through operations in countries such as Liberia, Sudan and Kuwait.
According to him, restoring the country’s security architecture requires determined leadership more than elaborate policy documents.
His comments come against the backdrop of persistent security concerns across the country, including kidnappings, bandit attacks and violence targeting schools and communities.
In May 2026, dozens of students and teachers were reportedly abducted in Oyo State, while retired Major General Rabe Abubakar was kidnapped alongside his wife in Katsina State and later confirmed dead.
Obi insisted that confronting such challenges requires leaders who are prepared to take responsibility and make difficult decisions in the national interest.
