04/11/2025

Peter Obi on X

The recent pronouncement by the United States government declaring Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) and indicating the possibility of future military action should give every well-meaning Nigerian reason for deep reflection and serious concern. This is not just a diplomatic classification—it is a signal that the world is watching Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation and questioning the government’s capacity to safeguard the lives of its citizens.

There is no doubt that our nation is currently facing an unprecedented level of insecurity, one that has claimed thousands of innocent lives and destroyed entire communities. Across Nigeria, from the North to the South, East to West, the stories of bloodshed, kidnappings, terrorism, and banditry have become distressingly common. According to Amnesty International, more than 10,000 Nigerians have been killed since May 2023. These are not mere statistics; they represent fathers, mothers, children, and youths—ordinary Nigerians whose dreams have been cut short by senseless violence.

As I have repeatedly lamented, the unwarranted and unprovoked killing of Nigerians is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. The sanctity of human life should remain the foundation of any government’s policy and action. Every effort—whether through dialogue, intelligence gathering, community policing, or military strategy—must be made to bring these killings to a complete halt. However, beyond condemnation, we must also recognize a painful truth: much of the insecurity ravaging our country today could have been avoided with competent leadership and responsible governance.

While it is true that Nigeria’s insecurity did not begin under the present administration, it has worsened significantly due to the lack of capacity, sincerity, and commitment on the part of those in power. What we have witnessed under the APC-led government is a glaring absence of vision, prudence, patriotism, and passion for service. Leadership is not merely about occupying a position; it is about using that position to protect lives, ensure justice, and promote national unity. Unfortunately, the ruling class has failed to galvanize the nation toward a collective purpose or create an environment where every Nigerian feels safe, valued, and respected.

We must strive for a Nigeria where no citizen is oppressed, where no group feels marginalized, and where peace and justice prevail. A nation that allows the blood of its citizens to flow freely without accountability cannot progress, no matter how strong its rhetoric or policies may sound.

Nigeria and the United States have, for decades, shared a deep relationship founded on mutual respect, democratic values, and a common interest in regional stability and global peace. Both countries have collaborated in areas such as trade, education, counterterrorism, and humanitarian aid. It is therefore crucial that this long-standing partnership not be allowed to deteriorate. Instead of confrontation or threats, the present circumstances call for renewed and constructive diplomatic engagement.

Both nations must urgently engage in dialogue and pursue every plausible path toward addressing Nigeria’s worsening security crisis. The goal must be clear: to restore peace, rebuild trust, and ensure that Nigeria remains a sovereign nation where justice, equity, and the rule of law guide every action.

Only through sincere leadership, international cooperation, and collective resolve can we heal the wounds of this nation and chart a course toward a safer, stronger, and more united Nigeria.

— Peter Obi

2023 Presidential candidate of Labour Party