Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has criticised the Federal Government over what he described as the worsening insecurity across the country, accusing leaders of focusing on politics while communities face persistent attacks.
In a post shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, Obi said the scale of insecurity had become unbearable, citing recent attacks and abductions in several states.
He referred to an incident in Ngoshe community in Borno State where terrorists reportedly overran soldiers, killing security personnel and civilians and abducting more than 100 women and children.
According to him, the sacrifices of soldiers fighting insurgency often pass without adequate recognition.
Obi said he hopes to see a time when fallen soldiers are accorded dignified burials with national leaders present to honour their service.
The former Anambra State governor also pointed to reports from Nasarawa, Kogi and Benue states, where he said residents have complained about armed groups occupying farms and forests, disrupting economic activities and forcing many communities to flee.
He cited figures indicating that more than 14,000 people have been registered as internally displaced persons in the Kadarko area of Nasarawa State.
Obi further mentioned cases of abduction and violent attacks in Oyo, Ondo and Kebbi states, saying the incidents reflect the widespread nature of the security challenges confronting the country.
He also expressed concern about a recent attack in Kubwa, Abuja, where several residents were reportedly abducted from their homes.
The Labour Party chieftain described the developments as a troubling indication that insecurity is no longer confined to remote areas but is spreading to the nation’s capital.
Obi maintained that the primary responsibility of any government is to protect the lives and property of citizens, stressing that Nigerians deserve leadership that prioritises safety and welfare.
“The wave of terror has now brazenly crept into our nation’s capital. The attack in Kubwa, Abuja, just this week, about 19 citizens were abducted from their homes, including women and children. This is yet another grim reminder that insecurity is no longer distant but now a norm. These are national tragedies happening simultaneously all over our country, claiming the lives of civilians and security operatives alike.
“The primary responsibility of any government is to secure the lives and property of its citizens. Yet, the response from the government in power to all the incidents has been dead SILENCE, as if Nigerian lives no longer matter. The ruling class are instead devastatingly more preoccupied with how to snatch, grab, and run away with the next election,” he stated.
He urged authorities to take decisive action to restore security and stability across the country.
