The former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has called for a measured and diplomatic response from the Nigerian government following the designation of the country as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ (CPC) by the administration of former US President Donald Trump. Mr Obi warned that the pronouncement, which included an indication of possible military action, should be a major cause for alarm for all citizens.
In a detailed statement on X account, Mr Obi framed his response around the severe and ongoing security crisis within Nigeria. He expressed grave concern over the unprecedented level of insecurity plaguing the nation.
“There is no doubt that Nigeria is experiencing an unprecedented level of insecurity with attendant carnage and the most shocking loss of lives and property,” he stated.
To underscore the human cost, he cited a report from Amnesty International, noting that “over 10,000 people have been killed in Nigeria since May 2023.”
The Labour Party stalwart was unequivocal in his condemnation of the violence, asserting that “the unwarranted and unprovoked killing of Nigerians is most condemnable, and all efforts must be made to bring it to a stop.”
However, he stated that the tragic situation is not an inevitability. He argued forcefully that the crisis is a failure of governance, stating, “It is equally important to state that the terrible situation is significantly avoidable with competent leadership and governance.”
Mr Obi traced the roots of the current administration’s failure to what he described as a fundamental lack of necessary qualities in its leadership. While acknowledging that the widespread insecurity did not originate with the present government, he highlighted a critical deficiency in its response. “What is most unfortunate,” he said, “is the lack and absence of competence, commitment, prudent use of resources, patriotism and passion on the part of APC-led government/leaders to effectively govern, galvanise and lead Nigeria where no one is unwarrantedly oppressed and killed, a Nation where peace, truth and justice reign!”
His argument formed the basis for his specific recommendation on how Nigeria should engage with the United States. Rather than escalating towards a military confrontation, Mr Obi advocated for a renewal of diplomatic partnership. He reminded both nations of their long-standing ties, noting that as democracies, “Nigeria and the US have long been strategic partners committed to regional peace and security.” He firmly declared that “that relationship should not falter.”
In his view, the gravity of the moment requires a deliberate and collaborative approach.
“The present situation calls for constructive diplomatic and any other plausible engagement by both nations aimed at addressing the prevailing and disturbing security concerns,” Mr Obi urged. He concluded his statement with a call for swift, joint action, emphasising that “both countries must work in concert and expeditiously towards that purpose.”
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