Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi has called for stronger government action against insecurity. This statement follows his visit to Benue attack victims and communities affected by recent killings and kidnappings in the state.
According to The Punch, Obi visited Otukpo-Nobi and Efeyi-Ugboju communities in Otukpo Local Government Area. In these places, residents have suffered deaths, injuries and disappearances following recent attacks.
In a statement shared on his X account on Friday, the former Anambra State governor said more than 10 people were either killed or declared missing in Otukpo-Nobi. Additionally, several others are receiving treatment for injuries.
He also said more than 13 people were reportedly killed in Efeyi-Ugboju, while several others sustained injuries.
During the visit, Obi said he was informed that another 14 people had been kidnapped earlier that day. This incident occurred along Ankpechi Road.
Obi meets Benue attack victims
Obi joined residents at the site of a mass burial, where prayers were offered for those killed in the attacks. He also visited injured victims receiving treatment in hospital.
“I joined the community in praying for the repose of the souls of the departed at the site of the mass burial of the victims,” he said.
“We also visited the hospital to empathise with the injured, show our support, and pray for their quick recovery.”
Following his interaction with residents and victims, Obi urged the Federal Government to intensify security efforts. He also called for a reduction in areas where criminal groups can operate without effective government control.
“Having visited, seen, and spoken with those affected, I urge the Federal Government to demonstrate a greater commitment to securing the lives and property of citizens and to closing the ungoverned spaces that have become breeding grounds for insecurity,” he said.
Obi reminds government of security responsibility
Obi said protecting citizens remained one of the most important responsibilities of government. He argued that authorities must be held accountable when communities repeatedly suffer violent attacks.
“The primary purpose of government is the security and welfare of its citizens. When government fails in this responsibility, as it has with the people of Otukpo-Nobi, Efeyi-Ugboju, and other troubled communities, it must be reminded of that sacred obligation,” he said.
The visit came amid another security incident in Benue. After the visit, gunmen abducted 14 passengers travelling in an 18-seater bus along the Ankpechi–Omutele axis of Ohimini Local Government Area on Thursday night.
Police later confirmed the rescue of five of the victims, including a four-year-old boy. However, nine others remained in captivity as of Friday.
