Declare war on insecurity, economic woes, Obi urges Nigerians

A former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has made a call to action in response to insecurity and economic hardship in the country.

Citing recent cases of kidnappings, including the abduction of medical students in Benue, and a state commissioner and his wife in Edo, Obi stated that it was time to “declare war on this massive insecurity.”

In a statement on X.com on Saturday, Obi wrote, “When I say we should declare war on the economy, power, and insecurity, some people spin the narrative, while others complain. But what else can we do?

“In the last 24 hours, several people have been kidnapped across Nigeria, including about 20 dental students from Maiduguri and Jos in Benue State.

“An Anambra State Commissioner and his wife were abducted in Edo State, and others travelling with them were killed. These are just a few of the many tragic incidents happening across the country.”

The former Anambra State Governor, hence, called for a united battle against the challenges facing the nation.

“We cannot continue living like this,” Obi said. “It’s time for bold action, collective resolve, and a united front against these challenges.”

“We must declare war on this massive insecurity and other ills that threaten our society and work tirelessly to build a safer, more prosperous, and just society for all,” he added.

PUNCH Online reported on Friday that not fewer than 20 medical and dental students, along with a house officer, were kidnapped by gunmen in Benue State.

The students were reported to be travelling to the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students annual convention in Enugu when they were ambushed around 5.30pm in the Otukpo area.

Similarly, the Commissioner for Youths Development in Anambra State, Patrick Aghamba, and his wife were reportedly kidnapped in Edo State on their way to Abuja on Friday.