Nigeria not at war, we can’t keep counting bodies, Peter Obi laments killings

Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed deep concern over the surge in killings across Nigeria, particularly in the Middle Belt region. In a statement shared on social media, Obi emphasized that Nigeria was not officially at war, yet citizens continue to suffer from attacks, abductions, and destruction of communities. He called for urgent government action to halt the escalating violence and protect vulnerable populations.

Recent attacks in Benue, Plateau, and Niger states have brought the security situation to the forefront, with at least 23 people killed and over 30 reported dead in Plateau State alone. Over 45 houses were destroyed, while in Niger State, more than 40 people were killed and over 100 others abducted. Obi stressed that these incidents should not be treated as isolated events but as a broader national security crisis demanding a coordinated response.

He urged all levels of government to take immediate steps to safeguard communities and prevent further attacks. Obi advocated for enhanced intelligence gathering, rapid-response capabilities, and efforts to rescue abducted individuals and apprehend those responsible for the violence. He stressed that protecting lives and property is the fundamental duty of government, warning against normalizing the deteriorating security situation.