The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has disclosed how he would handle the challenges posed by agitators and bandits if elected Nigeria’s president in 2027.
Obi made the disclosure while addressing supporters in Washington, D.C., United States, where he spoke on insecurity, political grievances, and the need for a different approach to resolving some of Nigeria’s long-standing challenges.
Speaking on the continued detention of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu, the former Anambra State governor questioned the rationale behind keeping him in custody, insisting that expressing opinions or criticising political leaders should not automatically attract imprisonment.
According to Obi, there is no justification for detaining Kanu over statements or comments made in the course of political agitation.
“There is no reason whatsoever for keeping Nnamdi Kanu. You cannot arrest somebody because he was speaking or calling people names. Anybody can tell you anything,” Obi said.
The NDC presidential candidate explained that political disagreements and criticisms should be addressed through dialogue rather than prolonged confrontation.
Obi further stated that his administration would prioritize consultation and engagement with groups expressing grievances against the government. He stressed that understanding the concerns of agitators and other dissatisfied groups is essential to finding lasting solutions to the country’s security and political challenges.
“I have said it before, even the agitators, if I am in government today, I will discuss with them, I will engage them, and I will consult them,” he added.
The former governor maintained that dialogue remains one of the most effective tools for promoting peace, national unity, and stability. He argued that government must be willing to listen to aggrieved groups and address the root causes of their concerns instead of relying solely on force.
Obi’s comments come as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum, with major candidates outlining their plans for tackling insecurity and strengthening national cohesion.
The NDC flagbearer remains one of the leading opposition figures seeking to challenge incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other contenders in what is expected to be a keenly contested presidential election.
