Former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has vowed to adopt a hardline security approach by declaring war on terrorists and ruling out negotiations if elected president.
Speaking during an interview on Arise TV on Monday, Obi said Nigeria must respond decisively to escalating violence, citing the recent killing of Brigadier-General Oseni Braimah and other soldiers in an attack by Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents in Borno State.
“No nation will lose about 10 of its senior officers without a response. I will declare war on terrorists. There is nothing like negotiation,” he stated.
Obi argued that his experience as governor provides a workable model for restoring security nationwide. He recalled taking firm steps during his tenure in Anambra State, including seeking federal backing from former President Olusegun Obasanjo to implement decisive measures.
According to him, the strategy yielded measurable results, with improved security outcomes during his administration. He cited endorsements from security officials, including a former Inspector-General of Police, who reportedly confirmed a significant reduction in major crimes such as kidnapping and armed robbery in the state.
While advocating strong military action, Obi emphasised that force alone would not solve Nigeria’s security crisis. He attributed the current situation to years of governance failures, weak institutions, and the neglect of youth development.
“What you are seeing today is the cumulative effect of leadership failure—erosion of governance, values, education, and social trust,” he said.
He outlined a dual strategy that combines immediate, decisive enforcement with long-term reforms focused on justice, accountability, and inclusive governance.
“You start building while you are pushing. You ensure people are held accountable when they do wrong,” he added.
On political collaboration, Obi said he would work across regional lines, naming figures such as Nasir el-Rufai and Rabiu Kwankwaso as part of those he would engage, particularly in addressing security challenges in northern Nigeria.
He also pledged a hands-on leadership style, stressing that he would be directly involved in tackling insecurity rather than governing from a distance.
“I am not going to lead from the back. People will see it, they will feel it,” Obi said.
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