Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said 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.
Obi made the remark during a recent episode of the Black Box interview on Nevon HQ with journalist Rufai Oseni, which was published on Tuesday.
Responding to questions on how he would tackle insecurity as Commander-in-Chief, including the abduction of schoolchildren, the killing of teachers and attacks on military personnel, Obi emphasised the importance of decisive leadership and commitment.
“I have fought criminality in Anambra. Commitment solves the problem for everybody,” he said.
The former governor recalled his efforts against kidnapping during his administration in Anambra State, noting that criminal activities were significantly reduced through determined action by his government.
According to him, leadership requires taking responsibility and maintaining authority over those who threaten public safety.
“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,” Obi stated.
When asked directly whether he was ready to die for Nigeria, he responded in the affirmative.
“Yes. 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,” he said.
Obi’s comments come against the backdrop of ongoing security concerns across the country, including incidents of kidnapping, banditry and attacks on schools and security personnel.
He expressed concern over the growing influence of non-state actors and argued that Nigeria could overcome its security challenges through committed and purposeful leadership.
The former presidential candidate also reflected on Nigeria’s past contributions to international peacekeeping missions in countries such as Liberia, Sudan and Kuwait, expressing confidence that the nation’s security institutions could regain their strength and effectiveness.
Obi maintained that beyond policies and strategies, the determination of leaders to confront insecurity remains critical to restoring peace and stability across the country.
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