Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in violence and killings during the holiday season, specifically in Plateau, Katsina, and Zamfara states.
Obi lamented that the ongoing insecurity surpassed the troubles faced by some nations in declared wars. He praised the dedication of Nigerian security forces, acknowledging the challenges they endure, often without the prayers and sympathy they deserve.
The former governor of Anambra State, through a series of posts on social media, extended condolences to the families affected by terrorist attacks. He emphasized the need to remember and appreciate the sacrifices made by security operatives who are tirelessly working to safeguard the nation.
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Obi urged the nation to spare thoughts and prayers for those serving in uniform, facing risks and spending the festive season away from their homes and loved ones. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices made by these dedicated individuals, highlighting their role as guardians of the nation’s freedom.
Expressing sympathy for the victims of recent violent incidents, including a nightclub attack in Anambra and Christmas Day terrorism in Plateau, Obi called for unity in prayer for the nation’s healing. He concluded with a plea for continued prayers, emphasizing the gravity of the security crisis in Nigeria, which surpasses the challenges faced by nations at war.
In his words:
“As we celebrate this season of peace and love and the approach of a new year, I like to spare a thought for our compatriots in uniform.
“After my sympathy visit to the Regent of Oba Community in Anambra State for the recent horrific killing of people in a nightclub in that community; plus the mindless act of terrorism that occurred on Christmas Day in Plateau State, where the death toll is now reportedly more than 100 with over 300 injured; with the saddening acts of violence that have occurred in Zamfara and Katsina States, where farmers were killed and several others kidnapped, and the many other violent attacks in many parts of the country, which may go unreported; my thoughts went to our overstretched security operatives.
“The men and women of our armed and security services come to mind. They are our gallant troops in various battlefronts of insecurity, the policemen and women on patrol in our cities and highways, the Civil Defense Corps, and Department of State Security operatives.
“These illustrious citizens are often lost in our thoughts and prayers both as leaders and fellow citizens, yet they remain the guardians and protectors of our freedom as a people.
“I am also thinking of those who in the call of duty have to spend this festive season away from the comfort of their homes and the embrace of loved ones.
“I am referring to those who face the risk of the supreme sacrifice to protect and defend the freedom of our dear nation and the liberties that come with our democracy.
“Let us spare them our thoughts and prayers this season. A grateful nation for your services and sacrifices. God bless you all for what you do for us all.
“And to all the families who have lost their loved ones to these acts of violence, do accept my sincere condolences. These are very challenging times in our nation.
“Even some countries in open declared wars have not experienced this level of insecurity, violence and loss of human lives. Let us continue to pray for our nation that God will heal our land.”
