The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has warned the Federal Government that it will be held responsible if harm comes to its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, amid growing concerns over his security. NDC National Publicity Secretary Abdulmumin Abdulsalam stated the party was deeply disturbed by Obi's recent suggestion that he might not survive to contest the 2027 presidential election. Abdulsalam accused the government of systematically denying Obi adequate security protection, calling it unacceptable for a politician of his profile. Obi, who has run for president twice and won millions of votes, is entitled to state protection, the party argued.
Abdulsalam claimed it appeared the establishment was not interested in Obi's safety, pointing to an alleged attack on his convoy during a visit to Edo State as evidence of rising risks. He referenced the 2015 attack on Muhammadu Buhari during his campaign in Kaduna, noting that Buhari, then an opposition candidate, received protection from the Goodluck Jonathan administration. The NDC questioned why Obi, now preparing for another presidential bid, was not receiving similar safeguards. The party urged President Bola Tinubu's administration to extend adequate security to Obi, his running mate, and all presidential candidates ahead of 2027.
The NDC emphasized that protecting political figures was critical to preserving Nigeria's democratic process. Abdulsalam warned that the party would hold the Federal Government accountable for any harm that befell Obi. No official response has been issued by the Federal Government regarding the allegations.
The NDC claims Peter Obi is not getting the same security protection Muhammadu Buhari received as an opposition candidate in 2015, despite facing similar threats. If Obi's convoy was attacked in Edo and the government is aware, then the comparison raises questions about current security priorities. The party's warning suggests a growing distrust in how protection is allocated to high-profile political figures. This could affect how opposition candidates assess their safety in the lead-up to 2027.
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