By Ayomide Otitoju
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election and former Governor of Anambra State, has raised concerns over the growing wave of crime, particularly kidnappings, across Nigeria.
In a statement shared on his X handle Thursday, Obi lamented the alarming rate of insecurity, which he said spares no one and disrupts critical sectors of the nation.
Nationwide Fear and Apprehension
“The frequent occurrence of crimes, especially kidnapping, in the country today is worrisome and has caused widespread apprehension,” Obi stated. “No one is spared from the dangerous wave of kidnappings and killings sweeping through many parts of the nation.”
He highlighted the toll insecurity has taken on agriculture, education, and healthcare, noting that farmers, teachers, and healthcare workers in rural areas are often victims of these crimes.
“Every Nigerian feels the heat of insecurity. Farmers are chased from their farmlands, and critical workers in the health and education sectors are being kidnapped or killed,” Obi said.
He referenced recent incidents, including the killing of the Manager of the College of Nursing Sciences in Ihiala and the abduction of two reverend sisters, one a principal and the other a teacher, in Anambra State.
“These are individuals making immense sacrifices to contribute to national development, yet they are being targeted in their noble efforts,” he added.
Call for Leadership and Urgent Action
Obi described the wave of kidnappings and killings as unjustifiable, urging Nigeria’s leaders to treat the issue with the urgency it deserves.
He also expressed concern over unreported cases, questioning how many more tragedies remain unnoticed.
“This worrisome situation demands urgent and comprehensive action from all leaders in the country,” Obi urged.
Appeal to Government and Perpetrators
Obi called on the government to deploy all available security resources to curb the menace and ensure the safe rescue of those held captive.
“To the criminals terrorizing our people, I urge you to have a change of heart and desist from your evil ways. We must not destroy our nation with terror and violence,” he said.
The Labour Party chieftain’s remarks come amid growing insecurity in Nigeria, which has left citizens increasingly vulnerable and anxious about their safety.
