Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, has called on the Nigerian government to break what he described as a recurring cycle of “killings, condolences, promises, and inaction,” following fresh attacks in Sokoto and Benue States that have left dozens dead.
Obi, in a statement posted on his X handle on Tuesday, said at least 32 people were killed in an attack on Ungushi community in Sokoto State, while a separate attack in Ukum, Benue State, claimed more lives and left several others injured.
“These are not just numbers,” he said. “They are parents, children, farmers, and breadwinners whose lives have been cut short, leaving families devastated and communities in fear.”
The former governor said Nigeria could no longer afford a pattern in which deadly attacks are followed by pubic mourning and official promises with little lasting change on the ground.
“We cannot continue with a cycle of killings, condolences, promises, and inaction,” Obi said, urging government at all levels to make tackling insecurity a genuine priority.
He called for a specific set of measures, including improved intelligence gathering, more proactive security deployment, faster emergency response, dedicated protection for vulnerable communities, and consistent prosecution of perpetrators.
Obi framed these as basic obligations of government rather than extraordinary demands.
“The government must endeavour to protect the lives and property of its citizens,” he said, adding that “Nigerians should be able to sleep peacefully in their homes, travel safely on our roads, and go to their farms without fear.”
He extended condolences to the families and communities affected by both attacks, offering comfort to the bereaved, and praying for the souls of the departed, and for the nation to find lasting peace.
