NDC presidential candidate says he will engage Igboho, Gumi, and Biafra representatives, insisting dialogue—not blame—is key to national unity

Presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has outlined a dialogue-driven approach to addressing Nigeria’s deepening insecurity and divisions, promising to engage separatist agitators and dissenting voices across the country if elected president.

Speaking during an interview on Nevon News with Rufai Oseni, Obi said his administration would prioritise direct conversations with key figures often linked to agitation and unrest. Those he mentioned include Yoruba Nation campaigner Sunday Igboho, Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, and representatives of Biafra separatist movements.

Obi stressed that his goal would not be to assign blame but to find common ground and workable solutions.

“When I’m elected, I will discuss with everybody. I’m not there to apportion blame on who is wrong or right,” he said.

He explained that inclusive dialogue would form the backbone of his conflict-resolution strategy, drawing from his experience as a former governor.

“In solving this problem, I want to sit down with everybody and say, ‘let’s go this way’. As a president, I will engage people directly—you will see it. I did it as governor, bringing together traditional rulers and stakeholders to talk through issues,” he added.

Addressing concerns about possible resistance from some of the figures he intends to engage, Obi expressed confidence that they would ultimately respond to dialogue. He likened the situation to a medical scenario, suggesting that those affected by the crisis would have a stake in seeking solutions.

“They will listen to me, they are in the problem. How can you call someone who is sick to come to the hospital and he says he won’t come?” he said.

Obi’s remarks come amid ongoing debates over how best to address insecurity, separatist agitations, and national cohesion in Nigeria.