Abuja, Nigeria – Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on the Nigerian government to take immediate and decisive action to protect the lives of citizens amid escalating violence and insecurity across the nation.

Expressing deep sorrow over the recent killings of seven mobile police officers by armed bandits in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Obi emphasized the urgent need for the government to address the pervasive insecurity that has plagued the country. In a heartfelt message shared on his X handle on Sunday, the former Anambra State Governor underscored the necessity of holding perpetrators accountable to restore peace and safety.

“I must, for the best interest of our nation, continue to add my voice against the ever-rising tide of insecurity in Nigeria,” Obi stated. “It has cost us precious lives, caused damage to properties, and denied us opportunities for progress and development.”

Obi highlighted the broader implications of the insecurity crisis, noting that it undermines the very fabric of democracy by instilling fear among citizens. “Democracy without freedom from fear is a farce,” he declared, stressing that the ongoing violence has severely restricted the freedom of Nigerians to live in peace.

He recounted recent incidents of violence that have left communities in mourning, including the killing of 30 Nigerians in separate attacks in Dutsinma and Safana Local Government Areas of Katsina State, and the invasion of the Bassa community in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, which resulted in 20 deaths.

“The monster of insecurity has continued to rear its ugly head in every part of the nation, leaving in its wake, tears, blood, and death,” Obi said. He urged the government to take concrete steps to end the “killing spree” and ensure that the lives of all Nigerians are safeguarded.

Obi extended his condolences to the families of the slain police officers and other victims of the attacks, expressing hope that the nation will eventually overcome its security challenges. “The life of every Nigerian matters and must be protected. We shall overcome. May God grant eternal rest to the dead,” he concluded.

The call from Peter Obi comes amid growing public frustration with the government’s handling of security issues, with many citizens demanding more effective measures to combat the persistent threats posed by bandits, terrorists, and other criminal elements.