The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned the recent killings in Benue and Plateau states, describing the attacks as tragic and deeply disturbing.
In a statement made available to The News Chronicle, Obi expressed sorrow over the reported killing of at least 16 people in the Otukpo-Nobi community of Benue State and the murder of nine members of the same family, including a two-month-old baby, in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
He said the latest attacks underscored the persistent insecurity confronting several communities across the country and called for urgent, decisive measures to end the bloodshed.
“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,” he said.
Obi stressed that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government, noting that every Nigerian life is precious and that those killed were more than statistics.
“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.
The former Anambra State governor extended his condolences to the bereaved families and the governments and people of Benue and Plateau states, praying for comfort for those who lost loved ones, healing for the injured and strength for the affected communities.
Obi maintained that the killings should not be viewed through a political lens but as a humanitarian crisis requiring urgent national attention.
“No country can develop when its citizens live in fear, and no society can prosper when innocent blood continues to flow unchecked,” he added.
