Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has faulted the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government for what he described as “incompetence, lack of commitment and patriotism” in tackling Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
In a tweet posted on X on Monday, Obi reacted to the United States government’s recent decision to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern”(CPC) over human rights and religious freedom violations, Obi said the move “should give every well-meaning Nigerian serious concern.”
The former Anambra State governor noted that the country is facing “an unprecedented level of insecurity with attendant carnage and the most shocking loss of lives and property.”
Quoting figures from Amnesty International, he said, “Over 10,000 people have been killed in Nigeria since May 2023 and as I have repeatedly lamented, the unwarranted and unprovoked killing of Nigerians is most condemnable, and all efforts must be made to bring it to a stop.”
While acknowledging that insecurity predated the current administration, Obi said the situation has worsened due to poor governance and mismanagement. “It is equally important to state that the terrible situation is significantly avoidable with competent leadership and governance,” he said.
He accused the APC government of failing to show the qualities needed to lead Nigeria effectively. “What is most unfortunate is the lack and absence of competence, commitment, prudent use of resources, patriotism and passion on the part of APC-led government/leaders to effectively govern, galvanise and lead Nigeria where no one is unwarrantedly oppressed and killed, a Nation where peace, truth and justice reign!”
Calling for calm and diplomacy in responding to the US stance, Obi urged both countries to pursue constructive engagement rather than confrontation.
“As democracies, Nigeria and the US have long been strategic partners committed to regional peace and security. That relationship should not falter,” he said.
He further appealed for urgent collaboration, adding, “The present situation calls for constructive diplomatic and any other plausible engagement by both nations aimed at addressing the prevailing and disturbing security concerns. Both countries must work in concert and expeditiously towards that purpose.”
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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