Presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has pledged to adopt dialogue and negotiation in addressing Nigeria’s security and separatist challenges if elected president.
Speaking during an interview on Nevon News hosted by journalist Rufai Oseni, Obi said his administration would engage with key figures and groups involved in agitations across the country, including Yoruba Nation agitator Sunday Igboho, Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi, and Biafra agitators.
According to Obi, lasting solutions to the country’s challenges can only be achieved through constructive engagement rather than confrontation.
“When I’m elected, I will discuss with everybody. I’m not there to apportion blame on who is wrong or right,” he said.
“In solving this problem, I want to sit down with everybody and say, ‘let’s go this way’. As a president, I will sit down with people and talk and you will see it.”
The former Anambra State governor cited his experience in office, noting that he successfully resolved issues through consultations with stakeholders, including traditional rulers.
“I did it as governor. I brought people together, including traditional rulers, and talked with them,” he added.
When asked what he would do if individuals such as Gumi and other agitators refused to cooperate, Obi expressed confidence that dialogue would yield positive results.
“They will listen to me; they are part of the problem. How can you call someone who is sick to come to the hospital and he says he won’t come?” he said.
Obi’s comments come amid ongoing debates over the best approach to tackling insecurity, separatist agitations, and national unity challenges across Nigeria.
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