Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has described the recent security advisory issued by the United States Department of State on Nigeria as a troubling development, warning that it signals a deepening crisis that requires urgent national attention.
Obi, who also served as governor of Anambra State, said the directive by the United States to evacuate embassy staff over rising insecurity should not be taken lightly but treated as a national emergency.
“The recent directive by the United States to evacuate its embassy staff from Nigeria due to rising insecurity is deeply worrisome and should be treated as a national emergency, especially for a country already struggling to attract investors,” he stated.
The former presidential candidate expressed concern that Nigeria’s security situation continues to deteriorate despite its global ranking in terrorism-related indices. According to him, the country’s position on the Global Terrorism Index reflects a grim reality that has not improved over time.
“Nigeria currently ranks fourth in the Global Terrorism Index, yet insecurity continues to worsen – lives are being lost and communities remain under constant threat,” Obi said.
He further lamented what he described as a lack of effective governance, arguing that political interests appear to have taken precedence over the safety and welfare of citizens.
“There is a glaring absence of effective governance; instead, what prevails are schemes that undermine democratic processes, as though politics has taken precedence over the safety of citizens,” he added.
Obi noted that the U.S. directive represents a significant blow to Nigeria’s international image, particularly in terms of investor confidence and diplomatic perception.
“The U.S. directive is a clear signal of declining confidence in our national security architecture,” he said.
The remarks come amid heightened concerns following the decision by the United States Embassy Abuja to suspend visa operations in the nation’s capital, Abuja, due to security risks. The embassy had also earlier reduced its staff presence as part of precautionary measures.
Obi also referenced recent reports of continued violence in the northeastern region, particularly in Borno State, where insurgent activities have persisted for years. He cited the killing of a senior military officer as a disturbing example of the ongoing threat posed by terrorist groups such as Boko Haram.
“Disturbingly, reports indicate the loss of yet another Army Brigadier General to terrorists in Borno earlier today,” he said.
The former governor stressed that no nation can achieve meaningful development under conditions of insecurity, emphasizing that safety is a fundamental requirement for economic growth and stability.
“A nation where people cannot live, work, worship, or travel safely cannot progress or attract investment,” Obi noted.
He reiterated that the primary responsibility of any government is to protect the lives and property of its citizens, adding that Nigeria’s leadership has consistently fallen short in fulfilling this obligation.
“The primary duty of any government is the protection of lives and property, yet in this regard, we as leaders have fallen short over the years. Our failure continues to place immense strain on our troops, who make the ultimate sacrifices,” he said.
In a strongly worded conclusion, Obi drew a historical comparison, warning that Nigeria risks further decline if leaders continue to focus on political ambitions at the expense of national security.
“Sadly, as Nigeria deteriorates, we as leaders, like Nero, remain preoccupied with politics, forgetting that without security, there is no nation to govern and no future to campaign for,” he stated.
His comments have added to the growing national debate over insecurity and governance, as stakeholders continue to call for decisive action to address the country’s security challenges and restore public confidence.
