The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, paid a visit on Saturday to internally displaced persons in Bokkos and Barkin-ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State, areas recently targeted by armed attacks on Christmas Eve.
Accompanied by party officials from the state, Obi pledged financial support to the affected communities, announcing a sum of 5 million naira for each local government area of Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi, where displaced persons are currently seeking refuge.
Expressing his dismay, Obi condemned the attacks that resulted in the loss of lives and property.
He emphasized the need for the government to fulfill its responsibility of protecting lives and property, stating, “It is disheartening to witness such attacks on innocent citizens. The government must act decisively to ensure the safety and security of the people.”
Concerned about the growing number of displaced Nigerians within their own country, Obi deemed the situation unacceptable and urged the government to address it promptly.
He remarked, “The increasing number of internally displaced persons is alarming and requires urgent attention from the government. We cannot allow our fellow citizens to live in fear and uncertainty within their own homeland.”
The armed attack on Christmas Eve targeted over 15 communities in the Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas, resulting in the tragic loss of more than 190 lives.
The attackers, who remain unidentified, set houses ablaze, looted farm produce, and inflicted widespread destruction on properties.
As investigations continue, no group has claimed responsibility for the heinous attack.
