Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress for 2027, has urged the federal government to step up measures to preserve lives and property in the wake of recent atrocities in Benue State.
Obi made the plea after visiting the Otukpo-Nobi and Efeyi-Ugboju communities in Otukpo Local Government Area, where previous attacks killed, injured, and left several persons missing.
Obi claimed in a statement on his X account on Friday that he visited Otukpo-Nobi, where “over 10 persons were either killed or went missing,” while numerous others were injured and hospitalized.
He also went to Efeyi-Ugboju, where “over 13 persons were reportedly killed and several others injured.”
The former Anambra State governor said he was also informed during the visit that 14 people had been kidnapped along Ankpechi Road earlier in the morning.
“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.
“We also visited the hospital to empathize with the injured, show our support, and pray for their quick recovery.
“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,” Obi said.
The former governor of Anambra State believes governments must be reminded of their duty when communities are left unprotected.
“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.
Gunmen abducted 14 passengers traveling in an 18-seater bus along the Ankpechi–Omutele axis of Ohimini LGA on Thursday night.
The police later confirmed that five victims, including a four-year-old boy, had been rescued, while nine remained in captivity as of Friday.
In early July, at least 16 people were reportedly killed by suspected armed herders in Nobi.
Later that month, armed herders raided the Efeyi village, killing 15 people.
It was gathered that the suspects invaded the community about 5 a.m., shooting sporadically.
Obi prayed for the souls of those deceased and encouraged the government to take stronger action to protect vulnerable areas.
“May the souls of the departed continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen,” he said.
