Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed deep worry over the recent decision by the United States government to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) due to rising insecurity and religious violence.
Recall that the US President Donald Trump issued the designation, warning that the US might consider military intervention if the persistent killing of Christians and other citizens in Nigeria does not stop.
In a statement on Monday, Obi said the US move should serve as a serious wake-up call to Nigerian leaders, stressing that the country’s worsening insecurity reflects a failure of leadership.
He acknowledged that insecurity did not begin under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but blamed the current government for lacking the competence, patriotism, and commitment needed to address the crisis.
“The recent pronouncement by the US government declaring Nigeria a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ and indicating possible military action should give every well-meaning Nigerian serious concern,” Obi stated.
He described Nigeria’s security situation as “unprecedented,” citing Amnesty International’s report that over 10,000 Nigerians have been killed since May 2023. Obi said the killings are “unwarranted, unprovoked, and avoidable” if there were competent leadership in place.
“While this insecurity did not start with the present government, what is most unfortunate is the lack of competence, prudent resource use, and genuine passion by the APC-led leadership to govern effectively,” he added.
Obi called for urgent diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and the US to prevent further escalation and to jointly address the country’s security challenges.
“Nigeria and the US have long been strategic partners in promoting regional peace and security. That relationship should not falter,” he emphasized.
He urged both nations to work together “constructively and expeditiously” to restore peace, truth, and justice in Nigeria.
