Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has expressed concern about the United States’ recent decision to evacuate its embassy staff from Nigeria, describing it as a troubling indication of worsening insecurity and declining global confidence in the country.
In a statement posted on his social media platforms on Thursday, April 9, 2026, Obi said the development should be treated as a national emergency, particularly at a time when Nigeria is seeking to attract foreign investment and boost economic growth.
He noted that Nigeria currently ranks fourth on the Global Terrorism Index, warning that the country continues to face escalating violence, loss of lives, and persistent threats to communities.
Obi criticised what he described as a failure of governance, saying political manoeuvring has taken precedence over the safety and welfare of citizens.
The former governor also referenced reports of the killing of a Brigadier General in Borno State, describing the incident as further evidence of the dangerous conditions confronting both civilians and security personnel.
Obi stated: “The recent directive by the United States to evacuate its embassy staff from Nigeria due to rising insecurity is deeply worrisome and should be treated as a national emergency, especially for a country already struggling to attract investors.
“Nigeria currently ranks fourth in the Global Terrorism Index, yet insecurity continues to worsen – lives are being lost and communities remain under constant threat. There is a glaring absence of effective governance; instead, what prevails are schemes that undermine democratic processes, as though politics has taken precedence over the safety of citizens.
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“The U.S. directive is a clear signal of declining confidence in our national security architecture. Disturbingly, reports indicate the loss of yet another Army Brigadier General to terrorists in Borno earlier today. A nation where people cannot live, work, worship, or travel safely cannot progress or attract investment.”
Reiterating that the primary responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property, Obi acknowledged that leadership failures over the years have placed immense pressure on the nation’s armed forces.
He added: “The primary duty of any government is the protection of lives and property, yet in this regard, we as leaders have fallen short over the years. Our failure continues to place immense strain on our troops, who make the ultimate sacrifices.
“Sadly, as Nigeria deteriorates, we as leaders, like Nero, remain preoccupied with politics, forgetting that without security, there is no nation to govern and no future to campaign for.”