The Igbo Heroes and Icons Foundation (IHIF) has called on the Federal Government and security agencies to guarantee the safety of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, following comments he made regarding his chances of contesting the 2027 presidential election.
The Foundation in a statement issued at the weekend by the National Coordinator, Chinedu Ofor, said it was alarmed by Obi’s remark during a recent interview that he “might not even be alive” to contest in 2027. IHIF said such a statement from a major political figure should not be ignored.
“Nothing must happen to Peter Obi,” the Foundation stated. “The security and protection of every Nigerian citizen remain the primary constitutional responsibility of the Federal Government.
This responsibility becomes even more imperative when it concerns a nationally recognized political leader and presidential aspirant whose safety carries significant implications for Nigeria’s democracy and political stability.”
IHIF said Obi’s comments, amid rising insecurity across the country, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence, which it described as major sources of anxiety for citizens.
“Igbo Heroes and Icons Foundation is not making accusations against any individual or institution. Rather, we are reminding the Federal Government of its constitutional obligation to safeguard the lives and property of all Nigerians. Every statement suggesting fear for personal safety by any major political figure deserves serious attention from the nation’s security architecture.”
The foundation also linked the issue to broader questions of equity in Nigeria’s politics. It reiterated support for what it called the “Igbo Presidency Project,” describing it as a call for justice, national integration and equal participation.
“The Igbo Presidency Project remains a patriotic call for justice, national integration and equal participation in Nigeria’s highest political office. A Nigeria where every region has confidence that it can legitimately produce the President is a stronger, more united and more stable federation,” IHIF said.
It further noted that Nigeria’s democratic reputation internationally depends on providing a secure environment where all eligible citizens can seek public office without intimidation.
IHIF appealed to political actors, supporters and the public to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and to allow democratic competition to proceed within the Constitution and the rule of law.
Credit: The Sun