NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi on Thursday travelled to Otukpo-Nobi in Benue State to stand with communities hit by a wave of attacks by non-state actors.
In a statement issued after the visit, Obi said over 10 persons were either killed or declared missing in Otukpo-Nobi, with several others injured and currently receiving treatment in hospital.
He said a neighboring community, Efeyi-Ugboju, recorded a separate attack where over 13 persons were reportedly killed and more injured. While in the area, Obi added, he was informed that 14 persons had been kidnapped earlier Thursday morning along Ankpechi Road.
“Yesterday, I travelled to Otukpo-Nobi in Benue State, one of the communities recently attacked by non-state actors, where over 10 persons were either killed or went missing,” Obi said.
The former Anambra governor joined residents for prayers at the site of a mass burial for the victims, and later visited injured survivors in hospital to “empathise with the injured, show our support, and pray for their quick recovery.”
Obi used the visit to call on the Federal Government to take stronger action against insecurity.
“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.
He reminded the government of its constitutional duty, saying: “The primary purpose of government is the security and welfare of its citizens. When the 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.”
Obi closed with a prayer: “May the souls of the departed continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen.”
