- He argued that such losses should trigger a strong national response
- Obi maintained that effective leadership can significantly reduce crime
- Obi emphasized that security operations alone are not enough to address the problem
Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential flagbearer, Peter Obi, has stated that he would adopt a tough, non-negotiable approach to tackling terrorism if elected Nigeria’s president.
During an interview on Arise TV, Eko Hot Blog reports that Obi reacted to the country’s worsening security situation, including the recent killing of Brigadier-General Oseni Braimah and other soldiers in an attack linked to Boko Haram/ISWAP in Benisheikh, Borno State.
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He argued that such losses should trigger a strong national response, insisting that engaging terrorists in dialogue is not an option he would consider. Instead, he said his administration would confront insecurity head-on with decisive force.
Citing his time as governor of Anambra State, Obi maintained that effective leadership can significantly reduce crime.
He explained that he once sought the backing of former President Olusegun Obasanjo before rolling out security measures in the state, which he said led to noticeable improvements.
He added that several security officials witnessed the impact of those efforts, including army figures and police authorities, noting that Anambra experienced a period with minimal cases of major crimes like kidnapping and armed robbery.
However, Obi emphasized that security operations alone are not enough to address the problem. He blamed the current crisis on years of weak leadership, declining public institutions, and the neglect of young people and education.
To address this, he proposed a balanced strategy, taking firm action against criminal groups while also rebuilding governance systems, strengthening justice, and restoring accountability.
He also highlighted the need for cooperation across regions, mentioning that he would work with key northern political figures to tackle insecurity in that part of the country.
Obi concluded by assuring Nigerians that his leadership would be visible and proactive, promising to stay directly involved in efforts to restore safety nationwide.
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