Take Trump’s Military Threat Seriously, Peter Obi Warns Nigerians
Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threat of possible military action against Nigeria, describing it as an issue that “should give every Nigerian serious concern.”
Trump, in a widely circulated statement, accused the Nigerian government of failing to protect Christians from killings allegedly carried out by Islamist militant groups.
He claimed that the United States could consider deploying troops or conducting airstrikes if the situation continues.
The Nigerian government swiftly rejected the claim, calling it unfounded and politically motivated.
Reacting to the development, Peter Obi warned that such statements from an American president — regardless of their political undertones — should not be taken lightly.
He noted that the mere fact that a foreign leader could publicly threaten military intervention in Nigeria underscores how deteriorating security conditions have damaged the country’s global image.
“This situation should give every Nigerian serious concern,” Obi said, stressing that the rising insecurity across Nigeria, including insurgency, kidnapping, and communal violence, has weakened the nation’s sovereignty and invited unnecessary foreign scrutiny. He urged the federal government to act decisively to restore peace and protect all citizens, irrespective of religion or region.
Obi, known for his emphasis on governance and accountability, linked Nigeria’s worsening security situation to economic hardship, youth unemployment, and systemic corruption.
He argued that insecurity cannot be solved by force alone, but by addressing the root causes of poverty and social injustice.
“The solution to insecurity lies in building a society where every citizen feels a sense of belonging,” he said, reiterating that Nigeria’s leaders must prioritise good governance, transparency, and national unity to prevent further decline in public trust.
Political analysts say Obi’s comments reflect the growing anxiety among Nigerians over both the internal crisis and the global attention it is attracting.
Some see his warning as a call for urgent reforms, while others view it as a subtle critique of the Tinubu administration’s handling of national security.
As public debate continues, the episode has once again highlighted Nigeria’s fragile position on the international stage — where domestic instability and foreign perceptions now intersect, raising questions about how the country will defend its sovereignty while addressing the complex realities of its insecurity.
