National Survival at Stake – Peter Obi Says Borno’s Fall Spells Doom for Nigeria”

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the escalating attacks by insurgents on communities in the North East, warning that the failure to protect Borno State could spell doom for the Nigerian state.

Obi asserted that if the federal government allows Borno to fall into the hands of terrorist groups, the very idea of Nigeria is at risk of collapsing.

Commending Governor Babagana Zulum for his courageous visit to Marte, a frontline community under threat, Obi praised the governor for showing true leadership by standing with his people.

In a statement released Tuesday morning, Obi called on the federal government to respond swiftly and decisively to the worsening security crisis in the region. He stressed that capable and compassionate leadership is urgently needed to address the growing insecurity across the country.

“It is deeply troubling what is happening in Borno State, particularly in the Marte area,” Obi said. “This isn’t just a regional issue—it’s a national emergency. Governor Zulum’s decision to spend the night in a community under threat is the kind of proactive, people-centered leadership Nigeria needs. His action should not just be applauded—it should challenge others in power to follow suit.”

Obi expressed concern over the continued displacement of citizens, noting that over 300 communities remain vulnerable while more than 20,000 Nigerians have again been forced to flee their homes. “These are not just statistics,” he said. “They are families, children, human lives hanging in the balance.”

He further highlighted Zulum’s warning about insurgents regrouping around Lake Chad and Mandara Hills, describing the situation as a ticking time bomb. “We must respond not with rhetoric but with urgency, resources, and political will,” Obi insisted.

He criticized the federal government’s pattern of delayed response and distant engagement, emphasizing that security forces need reinforcements and displaced citizens need protection, not promises.

“Leadership in Nigeria must be defined by compassion, competence, and courage,” Obi said. “Governor Zulum has demonstrated those qualities. Now, the Federal Government must rise to the occasion. If we fail to defend Borno, we are failing the very essence of our country.”

He concluded by urging Nigerians to rise above politics and rally for collective action. “This is not a partisan issue. This is about people—about the soul of our nation. The time to act is now: boldly, decisively, and justly.”