Former presidential candidate and Labour Party leader, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria, saying recent events justify global perceptions that the nation has become “disgraced” in the eyes of the world. Obi made the remarks in a statement shared on his official Facebook page, where he lamented the wave of violence, kidnappings, and political instability confronting the country.

Obi noted that in just one week, Nigeria witnessed multiple tragedies—including the abduction of 25 schoolgirls and the killing of a serving general alongside other military officers. He added that the latest terror attack in Kwara State further underscores the widening security collapse, raising questions about the government’s capacity to protect its citizens.

According to him, instead of rallying together to confront these national emergencies, the political environment has become dominated by internal conflicts, factional battles, and divisive narratives. He observed that political parties such as the PDP, Labour Party, SDP, and others are currently engulfed in leadership crises, which he believes are being deliberately encouraged by those in power.

Obi recalled an example from the administration of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who, during a period of internal crisis in a political party, instructed then-INEC Chairman Prof. Maurice Iwu to ensure all parties were protected and allowed to function within the law. Obi said Yar’Adua understood that the strength and stability of every party—whether ruling or opposition—were vital for the survival of democracy.

He argued that the situation today stands in stark contrast. Instead of supporting democratic growth, the current administration appears determined to weaken and fragment multiple opposition parties, thereby threatening Nigeria’s political stability and undermining democratic principles.

Obi stressed that in functional democracies, opposition is valued, elections are credible, and governance includes every segment of society to promote unity and development. He maintained that Nigeria must return to these principles if it hopes to overcome its current challenges.

Reaffirming his long-standing message, Obi concluded that despite the uncertainty and anxiety pervading the nation, he remains confident that a new and better Nigeria is attainable if leaders choose unity, justice, and democratic integrity.