NIGERIA: Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the continued wave of killings across the country, declaring that recent assurances by the President have not translated into improved security.
In a statement posted on his X handle, Obi referenced the President’s visit to Jos, Plateau State, on April 2, 2026, where he had assured grieving residents, “I promise you that this experience will not repeat itself.”
However, Obi lamented that less than 24 hours after the pledge, another deadly attack occurred in Nyamgo Gyel, Jos South Local Government Area, resulting in the loss of innocent lives. He described the development as troubling, noting that the country has since witnessed a series of violent incidents across multiple states.
He cited fresh attacks in Nasarawa State, where gunmen reportedly killed at least 11 persons in Akyawa and Udege Kasa communities, forcing residents to flee while homes were destroyed. In Zamfara State, Obi pointed to the abduction of about 150 persons in Kurfa Danya and Kurfan Magaji communities, describing it as one of the most significant mass kidnappings in recent times.
The former Anambra State governor further highlighted incidents in Borno State, where attackers stormed Chibok, killing security personnel and razing houses, as well as renewed violence in Benue State on Easter Sunday, which left several people dead and communities devastated. He also noted recent killings and abductions in parts of Kaduna State, including attacks on worshippers and residents in Kachia Local Government Area.
Reacting to the developments, Obi said, “This experience will not repeat itself,” stressing that the continued loss of lives across the country contradicts the President’s earlier assurance. He described the situation as a failure of leadership and responsibility, adding that Nigerians are paying the price with their lives.
Obi further argued that the persistence of such attacks suggests that perpetrators are emboldened by inaction. He questioned how such a strong presidential promise could be followed almost immediately by renewed violence across different parts of the country.
According to him, the primary duty of any government is the protection of lives and property, a responsibility he said is currently not being effectively discharged. He warned that citizens are increasingly unsafe in their homes, communities, and even in places of worship.
Describing the situation as a national emergency, Obi said, “Nigeria is bleeding, and the situation is worsening and increasingly helpless,” urging authorities to take urgent and decisive steps to address the security crisis.
