Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has said he would be willing to engage in dialogue with terrorists and other armed groups, provided they are genuinely ready to embrace peace.

He made the statement during an interview on BlackBox with Rufai Oseni, where he was asked whether his administration would consider negotiating with criminal groups if he becomes president.

Obi explained that his priority would be national unity and reconciliation, adding that any group willing to drop violence and join efforts to rebuild the country would be given a chance to engage in talks.

According to him, “In uniting the country, anybody who wants peace, I will talk with him; I will negotiate with him.”

He, however, drew a clear line between dialogue and aggression, stressing that groups that insist on violence would be dealt with decisively. “Anybody who wants war, we will go to war,” he added.

The former governor of Anambra state said his governance philosophy would be inclusive, aimed at ensuring no region or ethnic group is excluded from national development efforts.

He also noted that individuals with criminal pasts could be reintegrated into society if they show genuine remorse and commitment to change, citing examples from institutions abroad where reformed individuals hold leadership positions after serving prison terms.

Obi argued that such approaches reflect the need for rehabilitation and national healing, rather than perpetual exclusion.

He maintained that his administration would focus on building trust, promoting unity, and ensuring that all Nigerians feel represented in governance.