By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Monday condemned the renewed killings in Benue and Plateau states, where at least 27 people lost their lives during weekend attacks. Speaking through a statement shared on his X account, Obi called on the Federal Government to adopt a proactive, intelligence-driven security strategy to end the persistent violence and protect Nigerian lives.
Obi Condemns Fresh Attacks
Obi described the killings as painful, disturbing and unacceptable. He said the attacks highlighted the country’s prolonged security crisis.
According to him, at least 16 people were killed in the Otukpo-Nobi community of Benue State. He also noted that two more people died in Akpachi village in Ugboju District of Otukpo Local Government Area, raising the Benue death toll to at least 18.
In Plateau State, gunmen reportedly killed nine members of one family, including a two-month-old baby. The victims died during attacks on Kum and Wereng-Camp communities in Riyom Local Government Area.
Government Must Protect Lives
Obi stressed that protecting lives and property remains the foremost responsibility of every government.
He said, “The primary responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property. Every Nigerian life is sacred, and every life lost is one too many. These are not mere statistics; they are fathers, mothers, children, breadwinners and future leaders whose dreams have been violently cut short.”
He described the repeated attacks as a painful reminder that many communities have endured years of violence, fear and displacement.
“For years, families in Benue, Plateau and other communities across Nigeria have lived under the constant shadow of fear, violence and displacement. Mothers have buried their children, children have become orphans overnight, farmers have abandoned their lands, and entire communities have been left devastated. We cannot continue to accept this tragic cycle as though it were normal. It is not,” Obi said.
Calls for Intelligence-Driven Security
Furthermore, Obi urged the government to stop reacting only after attacks occur. Instead, he advocated a security system built on intelligence, rapid response and accountability.
“The time has come to move beyond routine condemnations after every attack. Nigerians deserve a security architecture that is proactive rather than reactive, driven by intelligence, rapid response and accountability. Those responsible for these atrocities must be identified, arrested and prosecuted. The culture of impunity must end,” he stated.
Condolences to Victims’ Families
Obi extended his condolences to the bereaved families and the governments of Benue and Plateau states. He also prayed for comfort for grieving families and quick recovery for those injured.
He added, “This is not about politics; it is about humanity. 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.”
