OBI PLEDGES TO UNITE NIGERIA, TACKLE INSECURITY, CORRUPTION

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has promised to unite Nigeria, confront insecurity and fight corruption if elected president in the 2027 general elections.

Obi made the commitment during a town hall meeting in Calabar, Cross River State, where he outlined his priorities for national security, education, healthcare and the general welfare of Nigerians.

The former Anambra State governor argued that Nigeria's divisions had weakened the country's ability to address its security challenges, insisting that national unity was essential to restoring stability and promoting development.

He maintained that bringing Nigerians together across ethnic, religious and political differences would create a stronger foundation for confronting insecurity and rebuilding public confidence in government.

On security, Obi promised a more aggressive approach towards kidnappers and other criminal groups, particularly those responsible for abducting schoolchildren. He vowed that his administration would pursue criminals into their hideouts rather than allow them to operate without consequences.

He also pledged to confront corruption directly, arguing that public resources must be used to improve citizens' welfare rather than diverted for personal enrichment.

According to him, responsible management of public funds would be central to his proposed approach to governance, with greater attention given to essential services and national development.

Education and healthcare were also identified as major priorities. Obi said investment in both sectors would be necessary to improve living standards and create opportunities for Nigerians.

He described the NDC as an alternative political platform offering a different approach to leadership, built around shared responsibility, accountability and improved service delivery.

The town hall meeting was designed to allow residents to engage directly with the presidential candidate, ask questions and express concerns about issues affecting their communities.

However, the engagement was preceded by a security incident after hoodlums reportedly attacked Obi's convoy while it was heading to the venue. Police subsequently arrested a 27-year-old man suspected of involvement in the attack.

Obi's promises add to the growing political debate ahead of the 2027 elections, with insecurity, corruption, economic hardship and national unity expected to remain major campaign issues.

The challenge for the NDC candidate will be translating these commitments into practical policies capable of addressing Nigeria's longstanding problems.