Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in Nigeria following the reported death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in the custody of kidnappers.
In a statement shared through his verified X account on Saturday night, Obi described the incident as a painful reminder of the growing insecurity affecting communities across the country. He said the tragic loss of a senior retired military officer demonstrates the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in Nigeria’s security architecture.
The former Anambra State governor lamented that a man who dedicated a significant portion of his life to defending the nation could become a victim of the same insecurity he once fought against during his military career.
Death of Retired General Sparks National Concern
Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, was reportedly abducted by armed criminals and later died while in captivity.
The retired officer was widely respected within military circles for his years of service and contributions to national security. His reported death has generated widespread reactions from political leaders, security experts, former military personnel, and concerned citizens.
Obi described the incident as a national tragedy and a reflection of the deepening security crisis confronting Nigeria.
According to him, the development should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to intensify efforts aimed at protecting citizens and restoring public confidence in the country’s security institutions.
The former governor noted that insecurity has reached alarming levels, affecting people from all walks of life regardless of social status, profession, or background.
Growing Wave of Violence Across States
Beyond the reported death of the retired general, Obi also raised concerns about recent attacks and abductions in several parts of the country.
He referenced reports of bandit attacks in Sokoto State, where armed criminals allegedly blocked market routes and abducted traders, disrupting commercial activities and creating fear among residents.
The NDC presidential candidate also highlighted incidents in Kwara State, where terrorists reportedly invaded communities, kidnapped residents, and killed innocent citizens.
According to Obi, these attacks illustrate the expanding scope of insecurity across Nigeria and underscore the urgent need for decisive action.
He warned that the continued spread of violent crime poses a serious threat to national stability, economic growth, and social cohesion.
Call for Intelligence-Driven Security Strategy
Obi urged the Federal Government and security agencies to move beyond conventional approaches and embrace modern, technology-driven solutions to combat insecurity.
He emphasized the importance of intelligence gathering, surveillance systems, inter-agency collaboration, and proactive security operations.
According to him, effective security management requires coordination among relevant institutions as well as investments in technology that can help prevent attacks before they occur.
The former governor argued that Nigeria’s security challenges can no longer be addressed through reactive measures alone.
He called for a comprehensive strategy capable of confronting criminal networks, improving response times, and enhancing the ability of security forces to protect vulnerable communities.
“Nigeria Cannot Continue Like This”
Expressing frustration over the recurring violence, Obi stated that the country is facing what he described as a grave security emergency.
He noted that traders are increasingly unable to travel safely to markets, farmers struggle to access their farmlands, and many communities live under constant fear of attacks.
The situation, he said, has become even more troubling because individuals who once occupied high-ranking security positions are now falling victim to kidnapping and violent crime.
“When traders can no longer travel safely to markets, farmers cannot access their farms, communities live under constant fear, and even retired senior military officers are not spared, it becomes evident that our nation is facing a grave security emergency,” he stated.
Renewed Debate Over National Security
Obi’s remarks have added to the growing national debate over security and governance in Nigeria.
Political analysts say the reported death of Major General Abubakar has once again highlighted the urgent need for stronger measures to address kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, and other criminal activities affecting several regions of the country.
Many observers believe that restoring security remains one of the most critical challenges facing Nigeria, as insecurity continues to impact economic activities, agricultural production, investment, and public confidence.
As investigations into the retired general’s death continue, Obi has urged authorities to treat the situation with the seriousness it deserves and prioritize the protection of lives and property.
The incident has become a symbol of the broader security challenges confronting the nation and a reminder of the urgent need for lasting solutions.
SEO Keywords: Peter Obi security concerns, Rabe Abubakar death, retired general killed by kidnappers, Nigeria insecurity, bandit attacks in Sokoto, Kwara terrorist attacks, Peter Obi statement, kidnapping in Nigeria, security reforms Nigeria, national security crisis.
