Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has sharply criticised the Federal Government's handling of the nation's security crisis. He's calling for urgent action to protect communities and bring home thousands of Nigerians displaced by violence.
Obi’s forceful appeal comes after he visited an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Mangu Local Government Area, Plateau State. He had initially planned to visit Yelwata in Benue State, but his delegation was reportedly prevented from reaching the area on Tuesday. The situation he witnessed in Mangu, he stated, was "deeply disturbing." Reports indicate that over 45,000 people have been displaced. More than 20 communities have allegedly been sacked by terrorists.
"These are Nigerians who want nothing more than to return to their ancestral homes," Obi said in a statement posted on X on Wednesday. He wants them to "rebuild their communities, cultivate their farms, and live their lives in peace and dignity." He spent time at an IDP camp that was housing more than 500 displaced individuals. He offered them support as a show of solidarity. His visit was also intended to shine a spotlight on the plight of these citizens. He believes they should not be left to fend for themselves.
Obi stressed that the displacement of any Nigerian is a concern for the entire country. He's echoing his consistent stance that "as long as there is one displaced Nigerian, all Nigerians are displaced." He insisted that the government has a duty to protect the lives, safety, dignity, and livelihoods of all its citizens. This protection shouldn't depend on where they live, their ethnicity, religion, or political leanings. "Our displaced citizens must not become forgotten Nigerians," he warned. He's emphasising that creating the conditions for their safe return, securing their communities, and supporting their resettlement is paramount.
The ongoing displacement, Obi noted, has shattered homes, ruined livelihoods, and cast a dark shadow over the future of the affected communities. He argued that this crisis demands immediate and sustained intervention from the government. "The New Nigeria we seek must be a country where every citizen can live, work, farm, raise a family and pursue their dreams in peace and security," he stated. This links the nation’s aspirations to the safety and well-being of all its people.
This call to action from Peter Obi, a former governor known for his focus on economic development and good governance, comes at a time when security concerns continue to plague many parts of Nigeria. His inability to reach Yelwata highlights the challenging security environment. This environment often hinders aid efforts and access for humanitarian assistance to those most in need.