0
Presidential candidate of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), Chief Barrister Dan Nwanyanwu, has pledged to confront Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and endemic corruption if elected president in 2027, declaring that the country’s survival and development depend on decisive action against both challenges.
Nwanyanwu pledged on Saturday while speaking at the Zenith Labour Party National Convention, where he emerged as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
Addressing party delegates and supporters, the ZLP flag bearer lamented what he described as years of poor leadership and lack of political will in addressing the nation’s security crisis, noting that insecurity has continued to erode public confidence and damage Nigeria’s reputation both locally and internationally.
According to him, restoring peace and security would be one of the foremost priorities of his administration.
“We have reached a point where insecurity has become a source of national embarrassment. Citizens no longer feel safe in many parts of the country, and confidence in the ability of the government to protect lives and property has been severely weakened,” he said.
The ZLP presidential candidate stressed that no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of fear and instability.
“It is a common fact that no nation battling this level of insecurity can achieve sustainable development. Before we can talk about economic growth, industrialization, or prosperity, we must first secure the lives and property of Nigerians,” he stated.
Nwanyanwu accused successive governments of failing to adequately address the root causes of insecurity, arguing that the absence of effective strategies has allowed criminal activities, terrorism, and violent crimes to flourish.
“The lack of political will by those in authority has contributed significantly to the security challenges confronting our nation. Nigerians deserve a government that is ready to act decisively and responsibly,” he said.
Outlining his plans, the presidential hopeful promised to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve coordination among security agencies, and introduce reforms aimed at making law enforcement institutions more effective.
“As President and Commander-in-Chief, I will immediately direct our security and intelligence agencies to identify, track, and dismantle criminal networks wherever they may be operating. Those responsible for acts of terror, banditry, kidnapping, and violent crimes will face the full weight of the law,” he declared.
He also advocated a robust community policing system, arguing that local communities possess valuable information that can assist security agencies in preventing crime and maintaining peace.
“We must build a policing system that is closer to the people. Community policing is not just an option; it is a necessity if we are serious about addressing insecurity in Nigeria,” Nwanyanwu said.
On corruption, the ZLP candidate described the menace as one of the greatest obstacles to national development, accusing corrupt public officials of diverting resources meant for infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other critical sectors.
“Corruption has robbed millions of Nigerians of opportunities and basic social services. Funds that should be used to improve the lives of citizens have often ended up in private pockets,” he said.
He vowed that his administration would pursue transparency, accountability, and strict enforcement of anti-corruption laws.
“There will be no sacred cows under my government. Every allegation of corruption will be investigated thoroughly, and anyone found guilty, regardless of status or political affiliation, will be made to face justice,” he stated.
Nwanyanwu further pledged to strengthen institutions responsible for fighting corruption and ensure that recovered public funds are redirected towards national development projects.
“Public resources belong to Nigerians. Any money recovered from corrupt practices will be invested in projects that directly improve the welfare of our people,” he said.
The presidential candidate also linked corruption to Nigeria’s poor infrastructure and weak public services, insisting that tackling graft would free up resources needed for development.
According to him, his administration would prioritize investments in electricity, transportation, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment as part of a broader strategy to stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities.
“We cannot continue to produce graduates without creating opportunities for them. Our young people deserve access to skills, technology, innovation, and an enabling environment that allows them to thrive,” he added.
Nwanyanwu emphasized the need for national unity, calling on Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious, and regional divisions for the collective good of the country.
“We must build a Nigeria where every citizen feels included and valued. The future of this country depends on our ability to unite around common goals and shared prosperity,” he said.
He expressed confidence that with honest leadership, strong institutions, and citizen participation, Nigeria could overcome its challenges and emerge as a secure, prosperous, and respected nation.
“Nigeria has enormous potential. What we need is leadership that is committed to the people, leadership that places national interest above personal gain. Together, we can rebuild this country and restore hope to our citizens,” Nwanyanwu said.
