Jane Salihu
The Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has reiterated his commitment to using dialogue, inclusion and shared sacrifice to address Nigeria’s deep-seated divisions, saying every aggrieved group in the country deserves to be heard.
Speaking during an interaction with Nigerians in Washington, United States, Obi said he would prioritise engagement with all sections of the country to foster national unity and address the grievances fueling agitation in different regions.
“I will listen to all agitators, harmonise their concerns and make some sacrifices with a view to bringing the country together,” Obi stated.
His remarks were contained in a statement issued by the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), which clarified that the NDC presidential candidate was advocating a broad-based approach to conflict resolution and national reconciliation, rather than endorsing any particular group or movement.
According to POMR, Obi’s position reflects a conviction that many agitations across the country are rooted in socio-economic hardship, political exclusion, perceived injustice and uneven development.
The statement noted that successive administrations have often relied on security measures to manage unrest, while underlying grievances remained largely unaddressed.
It argued that Obi’s proposed approach seeks to complement security efforts with meaningful dialogue, equitable development and inclusive governance capable of restoring confidence in national institutions.
POMR maintained that sustainable peace and unity can only emerge when citizens feel represented, respected and fairly treated, stressing that democratic engagement remains a more enduring solution to national tensions than coercion.
The media office added that Obi’s vision is anchored on building a Nigeria where every region and demographic group has a sense of belonging and equal opportunity, thereby reducing the conditions that give rise to agitation.
According to the statement, the NDC candidate believes that genuine national unity must be founded on justice, fairness and shared prosperity, principles he considers essential to building a stable and cohesive nation.
