The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned the latest wave of killings in Benue and Plateau states, describing the continued bloodshed as a grave national tragedy.
Obi, in a statement shared across his social media platforms on Monday, warned that Nigeria cannot achieve meaningful development while insecurity persists in parts of the country.
His statement comes amid gruesome attacks in Benue and Plateau states that have left dozens dead and many others injured.
Recurring violence has continued unabated across the country, especially in the North.
Kidnapping-related killings and violence perpetrated by bandits and terrorist groups have rendered many people homeless, forcing them to flee to state capitals while leaving many communities deserted and ungoverned.
Against this backdrop, Obi expressed deep concern over reports of fresh attacks that reportedly claimed at least 16 lives in the Otukpo-Nobi community of Benue State.
He also referenced the killing of nine members of the same family, including a two-month-old baby, in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Describing the incidents as “painful and deeply disturbing,” Obi said the recurring violence highlights the urgent need for a more effective national security strategy.
“For years, families in Benue, Plateau and other communities across Nigeria have lived under the constant shadow of fear, violence and displacement,” he said.
“Mothers have buried their children, children have become orphans overnight, farmers have abandoned their lands, and entire communities have been left devastated.”
The former Anambra State governor argued that the persistent attacks have disrupted livelihoods, displaced thousands of residents, and undermined agricultural production in regions regarded as major food-producing areas of the country.
He maintained that no nation can attain sustainable economic growth while its citizens continue to live in fear.
Obi emphasized that the protection of lives and property remains the foremost responsibility of the government, urging security agencies to move beyond reactive responses to violent attacks.
He called for a security architecture driven by intelligence gathering, rapid deployment, and greater accountability.
He further urged authorities to identify, arrest, and prosecute those responsible for the attacks, stressing that ending impunity is essential to restoring public confidence and preventing further violence.
“The time has come to move beyond routine condemnations after every attack,” Obi stated. “Nigerians deserve a security architecture that is proactive rather than reactive.”
Offering condolences to the bereaved families, as well as the governments and people of Benue and Plateau states, Obi prayed for comfort for those who had lost loved ones, healing for the injured, and strength for affected communities rebuilding after the repeated attacks.
He insisted that the issue transcends political differences, describing it as a humanitarian and national concern requiring collective action.
“This is not about politics; it is about humanity,” Obi said.
“We must summon the collective will to secure our nation and restore hope to our people.
“No country can develop when its citizens live in fear, and no society can prosper when innocent blood continues to flow unchecked,” Obi warned.
