In an interview that has quickly gone viral, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has reignited a crucial national conversation: What should come first, roads or safety?
Appearing live on AriseTV, Obi confronted journalist Rufai Oseni with a sharp and deeply reflective question that has resonated with many Nigerians:
“Securing a country is far more fundamental than building roads. Rufai, are you saying a coastal road is more important than securing Nigeria? Would you prefer a road to your village if you can’t even drive there safely?”
This wasn’t just political theater. It was a moment of clarity in a nation where insecurity has become an everyday fear and where grand infrastructure projects often seem like luxury distractions in the face of daily violence.
Obi’s remarks come in response to the Federal Government’s ongoing coastal road project, a multi-billion-naira initiative that aims to connect key southern states. On paper, it sounds like progress. But as kidnappings, armed robberies, and terrorism continue to destabilize communities, many Nigerians are asking: Progress for whom? And at what cost?
Peter Obi’s central argument is not anti-development. He’s not saying roads don’t matter. He’s saying they shouldn’t come before safety, and that no level of infrastructure can thrive in an atmosphere of fear and chaos.
This raises some heavy questions:
- Is it wise to pour billions into construction while citizens fear moving freely across the country?
- Can a nation truly develop when lives are at stake daily?
- Should infrastructure be prioritized when schools, farms, and highways remain unsafe?
Critics argue the reverse: that projects like the coastal road can stimulate local economies, create jobs, and discourage criminal activity in the long run.
But that’s only if people live long enough and feel safe enough to enjoy the benefits.
Development and security are interlinked, but Obi’s stance suggests a clear order of priorities: Secure the lives of Nigerians first, then build the roads they can safely drive on.
Obi’s comment has sparked massive online reactions:
“He’s absolutely right. What’s the point of roads if bandits will kidnap you on them?”
“It’s not about choosing one over the other. But if your people don’t feel safe, what are you really developing?”
“This is why we need leaders who understand human needs before political gains.”
The fact that such a pointed moment came from a televised debate shows how hungry Nigerians are for leaders who can speak truth to power and back it with substance.
Peter Obi’s words may have been directed at one journalist, but his message echoed across the country: Let’s stop pretending development can thrive in disorder.
The real road Nigeria needs right now may not be coastal, it may be a path back to safety, trust, and justice.
What Do You Think?
Do you agree with Peter Obi’s take on security vs. development?
Can roads ever matter more than lives?
Watch.
Drop your thoughts in the comments. Let’s have the conversation the government won’t.
1 comment
xxxx