The Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has visited communities in Benue State affected by recent attacks, killings and abductions, expressing solidarity with victims and calling for stronger government action to protect citizens.
Obi visited Otukpo-Nobi, one of the communities recently affected by attacks allegedly perpetrated by non-state actors. According to accounts presented during his visit, more than 10 people were either killed or remained missing, while several others sustained injuries and were receiving treatment in hospital.
The former Anambra State governor also visited Efeyi-Ugboju, where residents reportedly said more than 13 people were killed in another attack, with several others injured.
During the visit, Obi was also informed that 14 people had reportedly been kidnapped earlier that morning along Ankpechi Road, further underscoring the deteriorating security situation confronting residents in the area.
Obi joined members of the affected communities in prayers for the repose of those killed and visited the site of the mass burial of victims.
He subsequently visited injured survivors in hospital, where he expressed sympathy and solidarity with the victims and their families while praying for their quick recovery.
Speaking on the situation, the NDC presidential candidate urged the Federal Government to demonstrate greater commitment to securing the lives and property of Nigerians.
Obi argued that authorities must take urgent steps to close ungoverned spaces that, according to him, have increasingly become breeding grounds for insecurity and criminal activities.
“The primary purpose of government is the security and welfare of its citizens.”
He said the suffering witnessed in Otukpo-Nobi, Efeyi-Ugboju and other communities affected by violence should compel government at all levels to reassess existing security strategies and take concrete measures to prevent further loss of lives.
According to Obi, government cannot afford to overlook the plight of citizens living in communities repeatedly exposed to attacks, kidnappings and other forms of violence.
He maintained that protecting citizens remains a fundamental responsibility of government, stressing that Nigerians should not have to live in constant fear for their lives and property.
The NDC presidential candidate’s visit comes amid continuing concerns over insecurity in parts of Benue and other states, where communities have repeatedly called for stronger security presence and more effective protection.
Obi commiserated with the families of those killed and prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed, while wishing those injured a speedy and full recovery.
