Obi Says Ready to Die Remark was Symbolic

Presidential candidate of the New Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has clarified his recent “ready to die” remark, saying it was symbolic of his commitment to protecting Nigerians and ensuring their votes count.

Obi made the clarification after his statement at a town hall meeting in Port Harcourt generated reactions, with the former Anambra governor telling supporters that he was equally ready to die after some participants said they were prepared to make sacrifices to rescue Nigeria.

He explained that the statement was not a literal call for Nigerians to seek death but an expression of his determination to stand firmly against intimidation and attempts to undermine the electoral process.

Obi had urged supporters not to be intimidated as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that Nigerians must defend their votes and demand that every vote counts.

He said his position was rooted in the belief that leaders must be willing to make sacrifices for the people and take responsibility for protecting the country's democratic institutions.

The NDC candidate also warned against possible attempts to manipulate election results, saying his campaign would work towards strengthening coordination and deploying technology to make electoral interference more difficult.

Obi said Nigerians should actively participate in the political process rather than allow fear or intimidation to prevent them from exercising their civic rights.

He maintained that rescuing Nigeria required collective action, urging supporters to remain engaged and committed to building a country where citizens could freely exercise their political rights.

Obi, who previously made a separate “ready to die for Nigeria” declaration while discussing insecurity and leadership, has repeatedly linked the idea of sacrifice to the responsibilities of public office and national service.