I’m ready to die for Nigeria — Obi

Former Anambra State Governor and 2027 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has declared that he is willing to pay the ultimate price in service to Nigeria, insisting that true leadership demands sacrifice in the face of the country’s worsening insecurity.

Speaking during a recent episode of the Black Box Interview on Nevon HQ with journalist Rufai Oseni, Obi said Nigeria’s deepening security crisis requires leaders who are not only committed but ready to confront danger head-on, even at personal risk.

When asked what steps he would take as Commander-in-Chief to rescue abducted schoolchildren, address the killing of teachers, and respond to attacks on security personnel, Obi emphasized commitment over rhetoric, though he stopped short of detailing operational strategies.

“I have fought criminality in Anambra. Commitment solves the problem for everybody,” he said, recalling his tenure as governor when he claimed criminal networks were significantly weakened.

Obi referenced past remarks by a notorious kidnapper, popularly known as Vance, who allegedly admitted that criminal operations became difficult during his administration.

“One government. It’s either I’m in charge or they’re in charge. One person must be in charge,” he stated.

He added a stark reflection on leadership responsibility:

“We declare war. If you’re ready to lead, you must be ready to die. If you’re not ready to die, go home.”

Pressed directly on whether he was personally ready to die for Nigeria, Obi responded without hesitation: “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 added.

His comments come amid rising insecurity across the country, including banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on schools and security personnel. In recent months, dozens of students and teachers have been abducted in Oyo State, with some victims killed in captivity, while others remain missing.

Obi also referenced Nigeria’s historical role in peacekeeping missions across Africa and beyond, arguing that the country still possesses the capacity to overcome its internal security challenges if leadership is decisive and committed.

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