Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has expressed deep concern over the escalating security crises in Borno and Benue States. In response to the recent incidents, where approximately 50 individuals were killed in a militia gang war in Benue State, and over 100 internally displaced persons, mostly women, were abducted by terrorists in Borno State, Obi emphasized the urgency of addressing the root causes of insecurity.
Taking to his social media platform, Obi highlighted the need for a strategic approach to combatting insecurity by engaging the youth in productive activities. He underscored the importance of making investments in the vast lands of the North, suggesting that this would contribute to reducing the crime rate in the region. Obi insisted that lifting people out of poverty through job creation and support for small businesses is a sustainable solution to the long-term security challenges.
Expressing his distress over the loss of lives and the impact of insecurity on the nation’s economic and social fabric, Obi called for concerted efforts to prevent further deterioration into anarchy. He cited reports that farmers in Northern Nigeria are paying bandits significant sums for permission to farm, emphasizing the need to ensure the security of vital sectors like agriculture.
While acknowledging the sacrifices of security agencies, Obi urged increased efforts to match the adversaries with sufficient firepower, reclaiming the nation from the grip of insecurity. He commiserated with the families who lost loved ones, offered prayers for the quick recovery of the injured, and called for the safe rescue of the abducted individuals.
In conclusion, Obi invoked divine intervention, saying, “May God grant eternal rest to the dead.”
