Former Labour Party presidential candidate and ex-Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has recently suggested imposing the death penalty for corrupt leaders in Nigeria. During a visit to media personality Dele Momodu on May 15, 2025, Obi highlighted the need for stricter anti-corruption measures, drawing inspiration from China’s approach.
Obi explained, “If you steal a certain amount, the penalty should be death. For another amount, it should be life imprisonment, while smaller amounts should attract a minimum of ten years in prison.” He argued that such severe punishments would deter corruption, which he identified as a major barrier to Nigeria’s development. He also criticized the culture where individuals with no legitimate means of income live extravagantly, while hardworking citizens struggle to make ends meet.
Obi’s proposal has sparked widespread debate. Supporters argue that strict penalties are necessary to effectively combat corruption, while critics warn against adopting harsh, authoritarian-style measures. The discussion reflects the ongoing struggle to tackle systemic corruption in Nigeria.