Obi tells Tinubu: Stop counting bodies, prevent Benue-Plateau-Niger attacks
Peter Obi condemned the Tinubu administration's response to escalating violence in Benue, Plateau and Niger states, speaking Sunday after fresh attacks left dozens dead and hundreds abducted. In Plateau State's Jwak Maitumbi community (Mangu LGA), at least 23 people were officially reported dead with residents claiming over 30 fatalities and more than 45 houses destroyed. Separately, attacks in Borgu, Niger State resulted in over 40 deaths and more than 100 abductions, though Obi noted these figures remain contested. He also cited ongoing assaults in Benue State involving killings, kidnappings and destruction of homes and livelihoods.
Obi stressed that Nigeria cannot continue treating these as isolated incidents when citizens are being attacked in villages, abducted after prayers and driven from farms despite no official war declaration. "We cannot keep counting bodies after every attack. We must prevent these attacks before they happen," he declared, emphasizing that protecting lives and property is government's most basic duty. He warned Nigeria risks becoming "a killing field" without urgent intervention.
Calling for comprehensive action, Obi urged all levels of government to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid response capabilities and shield vulnerable communities. He specifically demanded security agencies rescue abducted Nigerians and ensure perpetrators face arrest and prosecution. The former Anambra governor framed the crisis as a national security challenge requiring immediate, coordinated efforts rather than reactive condemnations.
With communities across three states living under constant threat of violence, what specific preventive measures should federal and state governments prioritize to stop attacks before they occur rather than merely responding aftermath?