Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has called for the implementation of the death penalty for corrupt leaders in Nigeria, drawing inspiration from China’s stringent anti-corruption measures. During a recent interview shared on social media, Obi emphasized the need for severe consequences to deter corruption among public officials.
He stated, “We must deal with the issue of corruption aggressively; maybe just like the Chinese are doing. Make sure that if there is an amount you steal, it is death sentence; if there is an amount you steal, it is life imprisonment; if there is an amount you steal, it is not less than 10 years.”
Obi highlighted the pervasive nature of corruption in Nigeria and its detrimental impact on development. He lamented that individuals who engage in corrupt practices often live lavishly without facing repercussions, while hardworking citizens struggle to make ends meet.
He further stressed the importance of electing leaders who are competent, compassionate, and possess the capacity to drive positive change. “Leadership without compassion isn’t leadership. Anything short of citizen-led leadership is a waste of time,” Obi remarked.
Obi’s proposal has sparked debates across the nation, with supporters praising his bold stance against corruption, while critics question the feasibility and human rights implications of such extreme measures.
Nigeria has a history of enacting anti-corruption laws, but enforcement has often been inconsistent. The country’s ranking on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index remains low, reflecting ongoing challenges in curbing corruption.
As discussions continue, Obi’s call for capital punishment for corrupt leaders underscores the urgency many Nigerians feel about addressing corruption and the need for effective solutions to promote accountability and integrity in governance.
