Says Insecurity Predates Current Administration
Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has called for diplomatic engagement and constructive dialogue between Nigeria and the United States following Washington’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC), and its indication of possible military intervention.
In a statement on his official handle, Obi expressed deep concern over the U.S. government’s recent pronouncement, describing it as a development that should worry every well-meaning Nigerian. He noted that while the country is indeed facing “an unprecedented level of insecurity” with rising loss of lives and property, the crisis did not begin with the current administration.
Citing Amnesty International’s report that over 10,000 people have been killed in Nigeria since May 2023, Obi decried what he described as “the unwarranted and unprovoked killing of Nigerians,” calling it most condemnable. He said the worsening insecurity was largely avoidable if there had been competent leadership, prudent resource management, and a genuine commitment to peace and justice.
“The insecurity did not start with the present government,” he said, “but what is most unfortunate is the lack of competence, commitment, patriotism and passion on the part of the APC-led government to effectively lead Nigeria towards peace, unity, and justice.”
Obi urged the Nigerian government to adopt diplomatic and non-confrontational approaches in engaging the U.S., stressing that both countries have long been strategic partners committed to regional stability and democratic values.
“As democracies, Nigeria and the U.S. must work in concert and expeditiously through constructive diplomacy and other plausible means to address the prevailing and disturbing security concerns,” he said.
He maintained that only through genuine partnership, good governance, and respect for human life can the country overcome its challenges and regain its rightful place in the global community.
