Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has outlined a dual-track security strategy that would combine negotiation and military action to address Nigeria’s worsening insecurity if elected president in 2027.
Speaking during an interview on BlackBox with journalist Rufai Oseni, Obi said his administration would engage bandits, insurgents, and other armed groups willing to abandon violence and embrace peace. However, he stressed that individuals or groups determined to continue criminal activities would face the full force of the law and security agencies.
According to Obi, sustainable peace cannot be achieved solely through military operations. He argued that genuine reconciliation efforts, rehabilitation programmes, and opportunities for reintegration are necessary to address the root causes of conflict and prevent former combatants from returning to violence. He maintained that societies become stronger when they create pathways for individuals to reform and contribute positively to national development.
To support his position, the former governor of Anambra State cited examples from international experiences, noting that people who had previously served prison terms in other countries were later able to rebuild their lives and occupy important positions in society. He said Nigeria must be willing to offer similar opportunities to those who sincerely renounce criminality and demonstrate commitment to peaceful living.
Obi also linked the country’s security challenges to issues of national unity, inclusion, and governance. He argued that many conflicts are fuelled by feelings of marginalisation, inequality, and lack of representation. As a result, he pledged to pursue policies that promote fairness, equal opportunities, and national cohesion across all regions and ethnic groups.
The NDC candidate said his vision is to build a Nigeria where every citizen feels valued regardless of tribe, religion, or geographical location. He promised an inclusive government that would ensure balanced development and strengthen citizens’ trust in public institutions.
Obi’s remarks have reignited debate over the most effective approach to combating banditry, terrorism, and other security threats. Supporters of dialogue argue that negotiations can help end conflicts, encourage defections from armed groups, and reduce bloodshed. They point to successful peace-building initiatives in several countries where a combination of dialogue, rehabilitation, and security operations helped restore stability.
However, critics maintain that negotiating with armed groups could embolden criminals, weaken deterrence, and undermine ongoing military efforts. Some security experts and legal practitioners have warned that formal negotiations with terrorist organisations may conflict with existing laws and could send the wrong message to victims and affected communities.
The debate comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with bandit attacks, kidnappings, insurgency, and communal conflicts in several parts of the country. With the 2027 general elections approaching, security is expected to remain one of the dominant issues shaping political campaigns and voter decisions.
Political analysts say Obi’s proposal highlights the broader national conversation on whether Nigeria should prioritise military solutions, dialogue-based approaches, or a combination of both in addressing its long-standing security challenges. As campaigns gather momentum, voters are likely to closely scrutinise the security plans of all presidential contenders seeking to lead Africa’s most populous nation.
