Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has vowed to take decisive action against kidnappers and other criminal elements if elected president in 2027.
Obi made the declaration while addressing supporters at a campaign rally in Bayelsa State, where he promised to restore security and ensure Nigerians can travel and go about their daily activities without fear of abduction or attacks.
The former Anambra State governor said his administration would prioritise national unity and make the protection of lives and property a major responsibility.
Speaking on the growing insecurity across the country, Obi said he would not remain indifferent if Nigerians, particularly schoolchildren, were abducted by criminals.
He declared that he would personally get involved in efforts to rescue kidnapped victims, including entering forests where abductees are held.
“If anybody takes schoolchildren, if anybody kidnaps anybody, I will go into the bush. We will go into that bush and rescue the person. Nobody will try that in our government,” he said.
Obi also stressed the need to secure Nigeria’s highways, noting that citizens should be able to travel freely without fear of attacks.
He cited his recent road trips across several states, including Lokoja, Akwanga and Ebonyi, before arriving in Bayelsa, as evidence of the urgent need to improve security on Nigerian roads.
“Our roads must be secured,” he stated.
The NDC presidential candidate also criticised President Bola Tinubu over what he described as the President’s failure to visit Bayelsa State despite its contribution to the nation’s economy through oil production.
He questioned the President’s frequent foreign trips, arguing that greater attention should be given to engaging with Nigerians and addressing challenges at home.
On corruption, Obi promised transparent management of public funds, insisting that government resources must be used for the benefit of citizens rather than diverted for personal interests.
He further pledged to prioritise education, promising free basic education through collaboration with state governments.
On electricity, Obi said his proposed administration would work towards generating, transmitting and distributing at least 10,000 megawatts of electricity to improve power supply across the country.
He said his plans on security, education, electricity and accountability would form part of his broader agenda to improve living conditions for Nigerians.
