Former presidential candidate cites over 150 killings in two weeks as Plateau, Benue violence escalates
ABUJA — Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate, has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately return from his official visit to France and address Nigeria’s worsening security crisis. The appeal follows fresh attacks in Plateau and Benue states that claimed dozens of lives this week.
In a strongly worded statement on his verified X account, Obi likened Tinubu to “a retreating CEO far from the headquarters of his failing company,” noting that over 150 Nigerians had been killed during the president’s two-week absence. The former Anambra governor specifically referenced:
- Plateau Massacre: 51 buried in Bassa LGA after Monday’s attack
- Benue Violence: 7 killed in Otobi community’s second April assault
- Niger Delta Unrest: Pipeline explosions compounding security challenges
“The primary duty of any government is securing lives and property,” Obi stated. “One wonders the type of retreat occurring abroad while blood flows unchecked at home.” His remarks came hours after Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang publicly apologized for security failures during a somber visit to Zikke community, where survivors recounted fleeing burning homes.
Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga earlier conveyed Tinubu’s “deep sorrow” over the Plateau violence, urging collaborative peace efforts. However, Obi insists symbolic statements fall short: “That is not the new Nigeria citizens seek. Swift, decisive action is required.”
Security analysts note alarming patterns in the Middle Belt crisis:
- 64 Plateau communities now under armed group control (per Mutfwang)
- 200+ deaths in December 2023 coordinated attacks
- 79 Benue fatalities May-December 2024 from herder-related violence
As Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun vows justice for latest victims, displaced residents question the efficacy of existing measures like night grazing bans. With Tinubu’s return date unconfirmed, the opposition maintains presidential presence is critical to mobilize an overwhelmed security apparatus.
