Peter Obi Condemns U.S. Designation of Nigeria as ‘Country of Particular Concern’, Blames Incompetent Leadership for Rising Insecurity

Peter Obi Condemns U.S. Designation of Nigeria as ‘Country of Particular Concern’, Blames Incompetent Leadership for Rising Insecurity

In a strongly worded statement that has drawn widespread attention both at home and abroad, former presidential candidate , Peter Obi has reacted to the United States government’s recent declaration of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) — a designation that signals possible international intervention over worsening insecurity and human rights violations.

Obi, in a post shared on his official social media handle, said the U.S. move should serve as a “wake-up call” to every patriotic Nigerian, describing it as a reflection of the grave leadership failure that has allowed insecurity and bloodshed to spiral out of control.

> “The recent pronouncement by the U.S. government declaring Nigeria a country of particular concern and indicating possible military action should give every well-meaning Nigerian serious concern,” Obi said.

“There is no doubt that Nigeria is experiencing an unprecedented level of insecurity with attendant carnage and shocking loss of lives and property. According to Amnesty International, over 10,000 people have been killed since May 2023. The unwarranted and unprovoked killing of Nigerians is most condemnable, and every effort must be made to stop it.”

The former Anambra State governor lamented that Nigeria’s security crisis, though not new, has worsened due to what he called the absence of competence, commitment, and patriotic governance under the current administration.

> “While insecurity did not start with this government, what is most unfortunate is the total lack of competent leadership, prudent use of resources, and genuine commitment to good governance on the part of the APC-led administration,” he stated. “We must strive for a nation where peace, truth, and justice reign, and where no one is unwarrantedly oppressed or killed.”

Obi also stressed that the deteriorating situation was “largely avoidable” and could have been mitigated through effective management of resources, strategic intelligence coordination, and strong political will.

Obi emphasized that despite the tension surrounding Washington’s pronouncement, Nigeria and the United States must continue to act as strategic partners committed to promoting peace, democracy, and regional stability.

> “Nigerians and Americans have long been strategic partners committed to regional peace and security. That relationship should not falter. The current situation calls for constructive diplomatic and other plausible engagements by both nations aimed at addressing the prevailing and disturbing security concerns,” he added.

Obi’s comments have once again positioned him as a leading voice of conscience in Nigeria’s political landscape — a statesman whose consistent calls for accountability and competence continue to resonate with millions of citizens frustrated by worsening insecurity and economic hardship.

Political observers describe his tone as balanced yet firm, noting that while he condemned the failings of the current government, he also advocated for collaboration rather than confrontation with the U.S.

“Peter Obi’s message strikes a global chord,” said international affairs analyst Dr. Nkem Ezeani. “He combines compassion with clarity, showing the kind of diplomatic temperament and leadership foresight Nigeria urgently needs.”

As Nigeria faces mounting domestic and international pressure over human rights abuses, killings, and governance failures, Obi’s call for decisive leadership and strategic international cooperation is being hailed as a blueprint for restoring Nigeria’s global credibility and internal peace.

With growing discontent at home and rising global scrutiny, many Nigerians now view Peter Obi as the kind of pragmatic, disciplined, and visionary leader capable of steering the nation away from chaos and back to stability.