As President, I Will Give Peace to Those Who Want Peace, War to Those Who Want War — Peter Obi

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, has declared that his administration would pursue peace through dialogue and inclusion but would respond firmly to those who choose violence and criminality.

Obi made the remarks on Tuesday during an interview on the Nevon HQ podcast hosted by journalist and media personality, Rufai Oseni, while discussing how he would address Nigeria’s security challenges if elected president.

Speaking on insecurity, the former Anambra State governor said his approach would prioritise engagement and reconciliation with groups willing to embrace peace, while maintaining a tough stance against individuals and organisations determined to destabilise the country.

According to him, restoring peace and national unity would require a combination of dialogue, fairness and decisive action against those who refuse peaceful coexistence.

“I’m going to talk with everybody. In uniting the country, anybody who wants peace, I will talk and negotiate with them. But anybody who wants war, we will go to war,” Obi stated.

He stressed that every Nigerian must be given a sense of belonging, adding that no group or region should feel excluded from the affairs of the nation.

Obi said his vision for a new Nigeria would be built on justice, inclusion and equal opportunities for all citizens regardless of ethnicity, religion or social status.

“If you want to be part of this New Nigeria we are trying to build, that is possible, we can be together, but if not, you will face the consequence of your action,” he said.

The NDC candidate maintained that addressing insecurity requires honesty and a commitment to solving the underlying issues contributing to violence and instability across the country.

He argued that government must demonstrate genuine concern for citizens by promoting policies that encourage social cohesion, economic opportunity and national integration.

“We have got to a point where we have to tell ourselves the truth. Nobody will be left behind. There will be inclusiveness. We will show love and care for everybody,” Obi added.

His comments come amid ongoing national debates on insecurity, banditry, terrorism and separatist agitations, with political leaders outlining their strategies ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Obi has repeatedly advocated governance reforms, economic development and national unity as key pillars of his political agenda, insisting that sustainable peace can only be achieved through justice, accountability and inclusive leadership.