PHOTOS: Obi visits Benue attack victims, urges FG to act

Peter Obi during visit to Benue community attacked by gunmen. CREDIT: X | Peter Obi

Nigeria Democratic Congress 2027 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to protect lives and property following recent attacks in Benue State.

Obi made the call after visiting Otukpo-Nobi and Efeyi-Ugboju communities in Otukpo Local Government Area, where recent attacks left several people dead, missing and injured.

In a statement on his X handle on Friday, Obi said he visited Otukpo-Nobi, where “over 10 persons were either killed or went missing,” while several others were injured and hospitalised.

He also visited Efeyi-Ugboju, where he said “over 13 persons were reportedly killed and several others injured.” 

Obi said he was also informed during the visit that 14 people had been kidnapped along Ankpechi Road earlier in the morning.

“I joined the community in praying for the repose of the souls of the departed at the site of the mass burial of the victims.

“We also visited the hospital to empathise with the injured, show our support, and pray for their quick recovery.

“Having visited, seen, and spoken with those affected, I urge the Federal Government to demonstrate a greater commitment to securing the lives and property of citizens and to closing the ungoverned spaces that have become breeding grounds for insecurity,” Obi said.

The former Anambra State governor said governments must be reminded of their responsibility when communities are left vulnerable.

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“The primary purpose of government is the security and welfare of its citizens. When government fails in this responsibility, as it has with the people of Otukpo-Nobi, Efeyi-Ugboju, and other troubled communities, it must be reminded of that sacred obligation,” he said.

PUNCH Online had reported that on Thursday night, gunmen abducted 14 passengers travelling in an 18-seater bus along the Ankpechi–Omutele axis of Ohimini LGA.

The police later confirmed that five victims, including a four-year-old boy, had been rescued, while nine remained in captivity as of Friday.

In Early July, at least 16 people were reportedly killed by suspected armed herders in Nobi.

Later that month, suspected armed herders invaded Efeyi community and killed 15 people.

PUNCH Metro reported that the suspects were reported to have stormed the community around 5am, shooting sporadically.

Obi prayed for the repose of those killed and urged the government to take stronger measures to protect affected communities.

“May the souls of the departed continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen,” he said.