2027: Peter Obi Pledges Dialogue With Repentant Bandits, Tough Action Against Violent Groups…as He Unveils Dual Strategy on Security, National Unity

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has said his administration would pursue negotiations with bandits and other armed groups willing to renounce violence, while taking decisive action against criminal elements that refuse peaceful engagement.

Obi disclosed this during an interview on BlackBox with broadcaster Rufai Oseni, where he outlined what he described as a balanced approach to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges and fostering national cohesion if elected president in 2027.

The former Anambra State governor said achieving lasting peace in the country would require a combination of dialogue, reconciliation and firm security measures.

According to him, individuals and groups prepared to abandon criminal activities and embrace peace should be given the opportunity to reintegrate into society through constructive engagement.

“In uniting the country, anybody who wants peace, I will talk with him; I will negotiate with him. Anybody who wants war, we will go to war,” Obi said.

The NDC flagbearer argued that sustainable security cannot be achieved through military action alone, stressing that addressing the root causes of conflict and creating avenues for reconciliation are critical components of nation-building.

He maintained that his proposed approach would seek to balance national security imperatives with efforts aimed at restoring trust and stability in communities affected by violence.

Obi’s comments come amid ongoing debates over the most effective strategies for tackling banditry, insurgency, kidnapping and other forms of insecurity across different parts of Nigeria.

Successive administrations have adopted a mix of military operations, peace initiatives and community engagement programmes in efforts to stem violence and restore normalcy in affected regions.

The presidential hopeful said his overarching objective would be to unite Nigerians around a common vision of peace, development and national progress.

Security remains one of the key issues expected to dominate political discourse ahead of the 2027 general elections, with candidates increasingly outlining their plans for addressing persistent threats posed by banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities.

Obi said his administration, if elected, would remain open to dialogue with groups genuinely committed to peace while ensuring that those who continue to threaten the country’s stability face the full force of the law.