The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has pledged to tackle insecurity, unemployment and hunger, saying that, if elected in 2027, his administration would build a Nigeria where no citizen is left behind.
Obi made the pledge at a town hall meeting in Benue State during a campaign visit that also included a humanitarian trip to Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area.
Accompanied by his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, the former Anambra State governor sought the support of Benue residents, saying he wanted to secure and unite the country.
He said a new Nigeria was possible and promised decisive action against kidnapping and other security threats.
“If we are in government, nobody will witness what is happening in the country today.
“If you kidnap schoolchildren or kill anybody and try to run into the bush, we will go into the bush after you and get you. We must stop this act. Nigeria must be secured,” he said.
Obi also promised that no Nigerian would go to bed hungry, while criticising the management of the country’s resources under President Bola Tinubu.
He said that although government revenue had increased under the current administration, citizens had yet to feel the benefits.
“Nigeria has gotten more money, but citizens do not know where the money is going,” he said.
The NDC candidate also claimed that there was no ongoing Federal Government project in Benue State. He promised to prioritise development, job creation and youth empowerment if elected.
“We want to build a better society for you. For the youths, we want to ensure you finish school and are able to start your own business or get a job.
“Those with no jobs today, we assure you of our commitment that you will have something to do. Youth unemployment is unacceptable. We will empower the people through agriculture.
“We will build a society where a child of nobody will be somebody without knowing anybody,” he said.
Obi said his administration would also tackle corruption to ensure public funds were used for the common good, while investing in healthcare and education.
Obi visits Yelewata attack victims
Earlier, Obi visited Yelewata to sympathise with residents and families affected by the June 2025 attack.
He also paid a courtesy visit to the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty Prof. James Ayatse, at his palace in Gboko Local Government Area.
Ayatse thanked Obi for the visit, prayed for his protection and a successful engagement in the state, and called for continued prayers for Benue and Nigeria.
Obi told the traditional ruler that he was in the state for humanitarian and political engagements. He said he considered it important to visit the palace to seek the monarch’s blessing and hold discussions.
The former governor was accompanied to the palace by the Catholic Bishop of Gboko Diocese, Most Rev. William Avenya; Rev. Pastor Tor Ujah; other clerics; and party supporters.
Obi and his entourage were also welcomed by crowds of supporters and well-wishers in Makurdi, Yelewata and Gboko.
