By Ihechi Enyinnaya
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, has condemned the renewed killings in Benue and Plateau states, describing the attacks as painful, disturbing and unacceptable.
In a statement posted on his X account on Monday and made available by his media office, the former Anambra State governor expressed concern over the persistent violence in the two states, saying the recurring bloodshed requires urgent and decisive attention.
Obi referenced reports of the killing of at least 16 people in the Otukpo-Nobi community of Benue State, as well as the murder of nine members of the same family, including a two-month-old baby, in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
He said the incidents underscored the continued insecurity confronting many communities across the country.
“For years, families in Benue, Plateau and other communities across Nigeria have lived under the constant shadow of fear, violence and displacement,” Obi said, adding that countless families had lost loved ones while farmers had been forced to abandon their lands because of repeated attacks.
According to him, the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government, stressing that every Nigerian life is valuable and that the country cannot continue to treat such killings as routine occurrences.
Obi called for a shift from what he described as routine condemnations after attacks to a more proactive security strategy anchored on intelligence gathering, rapid response and accountability.
He urged security agencies to identify, arrest and prosecute those behind the killings, insisting that the prevailing culture of impunity must come to an end.
The opposition leader also extended his condolences to the families of the victims, as well as the governments and people of Benue and Plateau states, praying for comfort for those who lost loved ones and healing for the injured.
“This is not about politics; it is about humanity,” Obi said. “We must summon the collective will to secure our nation and restore hope to our people. No country can develop when its citizens live in fear, and no society can prosper when innocent blood continues to flow unchecked.”
The statement was signed by the spokesman of the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), Idris Zekeri Jnr, and dated July 13, 2026.