Obi vows to pursue kidnappers into hideouts, fight corruption
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has pledged to pursue kidnappers into their hideouts, tackle corruption and unite Nigerians if elected president in 2027.
Obi made the pledge on Wednesday during a town hall meeting with party stakeholders and supporters in Calabar, Cross River State, where he outlined his priorities for national security, education, healthcare and economic development.
“Anybody that kidnaps school children and goes into the bush, we will be in that bush with him, wherever it is. We are not scared of him,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor said his administration would confront insecurity decisively, particularly kidnapping and attacks on schoolchildren, while strengthening security operations to protect citizens.
He argued that national unity was essential to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, describing the country’s divisions as an obstacle to collective progress.
“Nigeria is currently divided. We will work to unite this country, because uniting this nation would provide the strength needed to confront insecurity and other national challenges,” he said.
Obi also promised to intensify the fight against corruption, insisting that public resources must be used to improve citizens’ welfare rather than diverted for private benefit.
“We will fight corruption head-on. We want people to stop stealing public money. Public money must be used for public good and for the welfare of the people,” he said.
He identified education and healthcare as critical sectors requiring greater government investment, promising policies aimed at improving access to essential services.
According to him, his political partnership represents a different approach to governance, built on accountability, shared responsibility and national development.
“We represent a new Nigeria that is possible. We represent a governance that people have not seen in Nigeria before,” Obi said.
He explained that the Calabar engagement was designed to allow residents to question political leaders, express concerns and contribute to discussions about the country’s future.
“The style is to listen to you. You are free to ask any question. No restriction. Make any comment. That is why we are here,” he said.
Obi maintained that restoring public confidence in government would require leadership committed to national unity, transparency and the protection of lives and property.