Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing killings and kidnappings in various parts of Nigeria, urging the Federal Government to address the escalating insecurity.
Speaking to journalists in Onitsha on Saturday, the former governor of Anambra State warned that if the security challenges are not promptly addressed, Nigeria risks becoming a failed state. He also highlighted the unrest in the South-East, urging local leaders to intensify their efforts in tackling these issues.
“The primary responsibility of the government is to ensure the security of lives and property,” Obi stated. “It’s concerning to see the level of killings, abductions, and other crimes that have made Nigeria one of the most insecure places on earth. This situation is pushing us towards a failed nation status.”
While acknowledging the government’s efforts so far, Obi emphasized the need for more coordinated actions, especially from South-East governors, to address both security and economic challenges in the region.
Call for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release
During the briefing, Obi also called on the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). He argued that there is no justification for Kanu’s continued detention, especially since a Nigerian court previously acquitted him, though this decision was later overturned by the Supreme Court.
“I see no reason for his continuous detention, particularly as the courts have granted him bail. The government must respect the court’s decisions,” Obi asserted. “The rule of law is a critical asset we must uphold. I urge the federal government to release all those in similar conditions and engage in dialogue.”
Background on Kanu’s Detention
Nnamdi Kanu was first arrested in 2015 during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. On October 13, 2022, the Court of Appeal in Abuja ruled that Kanu’s extradition to Nigeria was illegal and violated his fundamental human rights, ordering his release and dismissing the terrorism charges against him. However, the Nigerian government refused to comply, citing concerns over potential insecurity and the risk of Kanu absconding.
The Supreme Court later reversed the Appeal Court’s decision, mandating the continuation of Kanu’s trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
– Channels TV
