Obi laments rising insecurity, says politicians more focused on 2027 than Nigerians’ safety

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in Nigeria, accusing political leaders of prioritising preparations for the 2027 elections over the protection of citizens.

In a statement shared on Tuesday, Obi lamented that schoolchildren abducted in both Oyo and Borno states remain in captivity more than two weeks after their kidnapping, while government efforts appear focused on announcing rescue initiatives rather than securing the victims’ immediate release.

The former Anambra State governor cited a string of recent attacks across the country as evidence of escalating insecurity. He referenced the killing of at least seven persons and the injury of 10 others in Gwon-Ajang Village, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, as well as the abduction of more than 25 residents and the killing of one person during an attack on Ayegunle-Igun Community in Kogi State.

Obi also pointed to the recent killing of two police officers in Anambra State and the abduction of 46 people, including students, teachers and a school principal, from schools in Ahoro-Esinle Community, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

He further recalled the kidnapping of between 48 and 51 pupils and students in Mussa Community, Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State by suspected Boko Haram insurgents on May 15, noting that the victims have remained in captivity for weeks.

“Meanwhile, amid all these tragic developments, we politicians remain consumed by the next election, paying far more attention to political ambitions than to the safety and well-being of our children and fellow citizens,” Obi stated.

He described the continued attacks on schools and communities as a serious national crisis, stressing that such incidents should not be occurring in a country that is not officially at war.

Obi called for urgent and decisive action to tackle insecurity, protect lives and restore public confidence, particularly in vulnerable communities facing persistent threats from kidnappers, terrorists and other criminal groups.