The Nigerian Democratic Party’s 2027 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed his willingness to die for Nigeria, claiming that genuine leadership necessitates the ultimate sacrifice in the face of the country’s deteriorating security situation.
The former Anambra State governor appeared in a recent episode of Nevon HQ’s Black Box interview with journalist Rufai Oseni, which aired on Tuesday.
He was asked what he would do as Commander-in-Chief to rescue kidnapped pupils trapped in the bush, handle teacher beheadings, and respond to the deaths of senior military personnel, including generals.
Although he did not provide precise operational solutions, Obi emphasised the need for dedication and clear leadership.
“I have fought criminality in Anambra. Commitment solves the problem for everybody,” he said.
He described how, while he was governor of Anambra, notorious kidnappers were compelled to leave the state.
Obi cited a conversation with a notorious kidnapper known as Vance, who stated that criminal operations became terrible under his administration.
“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,” the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election added.
When asked directly if he was ready to die for Nigeria, Obi replied, “Yes.”
He added, “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 words came amid continuing banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and attacks on schools and security officers throughout Nigeria.
In May, 40 students and teachers were kidnapped in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
One teacher was killed during the attack, another was beheaded in captivity, and others have yet to be released.
Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.), a former military spokesman, was kidnapped with his wife on May 30, 2026, in Katsina State.
He was later confirmed dead, and his wife was rescued some days later.
Obi bemoaned the rise of non-state entities that challenge state authority but expressed confidence that determined leadership could restore Nigeria’s military might.
He recounted how the Nigerian military had previously assisted to keep peace in countries such as Liberia, Sudan, and Kuwait.
The presidential candidate contended that particular operational plans are secondary to the core issue of a commitment to face insecurity head-on.
