Peter Obi has described as appalling the gruesome attack on soldiers by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, or IPOB, in Obikabia, Abia State.
While expressing his condolences to the bereaved families and the good people of Abia State, Obi, in a statement on Tuesday, noted that “our failure as a nation to protect our citizens and security personnel is a clear dereliction of duty and a sign of the deficiency of the Nigerian state.”
Chronicle NG reports that several Nigerian soldiers were murdered in an ambush by gunmen suspected to be sit-at-home enforcers on Biafra Heroes Day, which was designated by the Indigenous People of Biafra throughout the South-East.
According to various sources who posted video clips on X, the ambush on the soldiers occurred on Thursday at the Obikabia crossroads in Ogbor Hill.
Calling for “swift and decisive action” against the culprits, Obi mentioned that the President Bola Tinubu-led administration should not use “empty words and hollow promises” in handling the incident.
Obi’s statement reads, “I am appalled and saddened by the attack on our brave soldiers in Abia State yesterday, resulting in the death of five soldiers.
“This dastardly act remains condemnable as it is a stark reminder of the escalating insecurity and violence that have continued to plague our nation under our collective watch.
“My heart goes out in solidarity and sincere condolences to my dear brother, Dr. Alex Otti, Governor of Abia State, and the good people of the state.
“More directly, my condolences to the families of the fallen heroes, who have paid the ultimate price in service to our country. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and we owe it to them to demand accountability and justice.
“Our failure as a nation to protect our citizens and security personnel is a clear dereliction of duty and a sign of the deficiency of the Nigerian state.
“The continued brutality and bloodshed in our nation must be met with swift and decisive action, not empty words and hollow promises.
“I condemn this atrocity in strong terms and demand an immediate and thorough investigation into this crime to identify and punish the culprits. We must not stand idly by while our nation is torn apart by violence and fear.
“We will continue to push for a better future, where our citizens and security forces are protected and valued.”
