The presidential flagbearer for the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has said Nigeria cannot progress if we allow violence to become the norm.
Obi made this known on Monday via his X handle, @Peterobi, while expressing displeasure over the killing of 16 young men in the Nibo community, Anambra State.
TheFact Daily reports that the young men were reportedly killed on Sunday by gunmen during their annual New Yam festival.
Reacting to the massacre, the former Anambra State governor described the act as despicable and senseless.
He said all hands must be on deck to address the underlying causes of the menace in our nation.
Obi said, “I am deeply saddened and outraged by the unending killing and death in our society. The senseless killing of 16 young men in Nibo, Anambra State, remains condemnable. This despicable act is not only a profound loss to their families but also a stark reminder of the escalating violence that continues to plague our communities.
“Life is sacred, and no one has the right to take it. Such heinous actions reveal a disturbing disregard for human dignity and the rule of law. Our nation cannot progress if we allow violence to become the norm, and we must work collectively to address the underlying causes of this growing menace.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the Nibo community, the Government of Anambra State, and all those affected by this tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
“I call on the authorities to act swiftly in bringing the perpetrators of this horrific crime to justice and ensuring that such incidents are never repeated. Nigeria must become a nation where safety and justice prevail over violence and lawlessness.
“May God grant the departed eternal rest and give their families, along with the Government of Anambra, the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss,” he said.