Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has voiced his concerns over the rising insecurity in Nigeria. During a press briefing in Onitsha on Saturday, he urged the Federal Government to take decisive action to curb the spate of killings and kidnappings plaguing the nation.
Averting a Failed State
Obi warned that if the security challenges are not addressed promptly, Nigeria risks sliding into a failed state. He emphasised that the primary responsibility of the government is to ensure the safety of lives and property, which is the foundation of any nation. He lamented that the current state of insecurity makes Nigeria one of the most dangerous places globally.
Commendation and Call for Collaboration
While acknowledging the efforts of the government so far, Obi stressed the need for increased collaboration among all leaders. He specifically called on the governors of the South-East to unite and tackle the region’s unique security challenges. He also highlighted the importance of economic cooperation among South-East governors to foster regional development.
Advocating for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release
In addition to addressing insecurity, Obi called on the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). He argued that there is no justification for Kanu’s continued detention, especially since a Nigerian court had previously acquitted him. Obi insisted that the government must respect the rule of law and court orders.
The Legal Battle
Kanu was first arrested in 2015 and has since faced various legal battles. In October 2022, the Court of Appeal in Abuja ruled that Kanu’s extradition was illegal and violated his fundamental human rights. However, the Supreme Court later reversed this decision, ordering the continuation of his trial. Despite this, Obi believes that releasing Kanu is crucial for peace and justice.
Ensuring Rule of Law
Obi underscored the importance of adhering to democratic principles and the rule of law. He called on the government to release all individuals in similar conditions as Kanu, emphasising that arbitrary actions undermine democracy. He expressed optimism that with continued vigilance and collaboration, Nigeria can overcome its security challenges and uphold justice.
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