Peter Obi Condemns Killings in Taraba, Benue, and Kogi, Urges Immediate Government Action

Peter Obi, former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has strongly condemned the recent wave of violence in Taraba, Benue, and Kogi states, describing the situation as a “national tragedy” and a “failure of leadership.”

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Obi lamented the “senseless killings” that have gripped communities in the three states in recent times.

Obi emphasized that the ongoing violence has led to mass killings, displacement, and the collapse of law and order, warning that such atrocities risk becoming normalized if not addressed promptly.

He highlighted specific incidents, including the killing of at least 42 people over the weekend in Benue State, attacks in Kogi State’s Okoloke community resulting in three deaths and the abduction of a traditional ruler, and renewed clashes in Taraba State leading to at least 40 deaths.

Obi called on the federal government to take immediate and decisive action to end the bloodshed, stating, “We need urgent action, not rhetoric. We need justice, not excuses. We as leaders must value human life and defend it with everything we have.”

He concluded by urging Nigerians to reject the current path of destruction and embrace a new vision of hope and humanity, asserting, “Nigeria cannot continue like this. This is not the Nigeria we deserve. We must end this bloodshed. We must reclaim our humanity.”