The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Party, Peter Obi, has said he is prepared to die for Nigeria, insisting that true leadership requires total sacrifice amid the country’s deepening security challenges.
Obi made the remarks during a recent episode of the Black Box interview on Nevon HQ, hosted by journalist Rufai Oseni. The interview was posted on Tuesday.
During the session, he was asked what steps he would take as Commander-in-Chief to rescue abducted schoolchildren in forest hideouts, tackle the killing of teachers, and respond to rising attacks on security personnel, including senior military officers such as generals.
Although he did not provide detailed operational plans, Obi emphasized that leadership must be driven by commitment and firmness in decision-making.
“I have fought criminality in Anambra. Commitment solves the problem for everybody,” he said.
He went on to describe his experience as governor of Anambra State, stating that his administration forced out notorious kidnapping gangs. Obi also referenced an interview involving a well-known kidnapper identified as Vance, who he claimed admitted that criminal activities became impossible 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,” the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election added.
When asked directly whether he was willing to die for Nigeria, Obi responded affirmatively, saying, “Yes.”
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He further stated, “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 comments come at a time of ongoing insecurity in several parts of the country, marked by banditry, kidnappings for ransom, and repeated attacks on schools and security forces.
In May, 40 students and teachers were abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. One teacher was killed during the attack, while another was beheaded while in captivity, and several others remain missing.
Separately, a former military spokesperson, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.), was abducted alongside his wife on May 30, 2026, in Katsina State. He was later confirmed dead, while his wife was rescued days afterward.
Obi also expressed concern over the rise of non-state actors challenging state authority, saying strong and committed leadership could restore Nigeria’s military strength and reputation.
He recalled periods when Nigerian troops participated in international peacekeeping missions in countries such as Liberia, Sudan, and Kuwait, noting that the military once played a more prominent global role.
He maintained that beyond technical security plans, the most critical factor in addressing insecurity is the willingness of leadership to confront it decisively.