Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has condemned the enduring waves of killings and attacks across Nigeria, asserting that the country has been effectively transformed into an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp.
During a recent visit to an affected community in the Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, Mr. Obi expressed profound sympathy for those displaced by insecurity. He emphasised that his visit was motivated by deep concern for the plight of Nigerians who have been forcibly uprooted from their homes.
Government's Failure to Protect Citizens
Mr. Obi specifically criticised the government's perceived failure to adequately secure its citizens and facilitate their safe return to their ancestral lands. He urged the Federal Government to take urgent and decisive action against the rampant killings and kidnappings that continue to displace communities nationwide, particularly highlighting the severe situations in Plateau and Benue states.
“As long as you are in IDP camp, Nigeria is in IDP camp. It is when you go home that Nigeria is at home. You are not supposed to be here,” Obi declared.
The NDC candidate implored the government to dedicate greater attention to the escalating security crisis and to implement robust measures against those responsible for attacks on innocent civilians. While acknowledging the importance of prayer in addressing these challenges, he stressed the government's fundamental responsibility to protect its populace and apprehend perpetrators.
“I listen to somebody who said we need prayers. Yes, we need prayers. But the prayers can be solved by government. The people who are coming to kill people are not from the moon. We know them. The Nigerian government should be able to deal with it,” he asserted.
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Humanitarian Crisis and Call for Accountability
Obi conveyed his heartfelt sympathy to the displaced individuals, insisting that they should not be living in temporary camps. Instead, they should receive assistance to return securely to their home communities. He also voiced apprehension regarding the devastating impact of insecurity on children, noting that the destruction of communities has forced countless children out of school, jeopardising their education.
The former governor highlighted the alarming scale of the crisis, pointing out that approximately 45,000 people from over 20 communities have been displaced. “You can imagine, 45,000 people in an area, over 20 communities. That is unacceptable. It is something that we must not allow to continue,” he warned.
He expressed a wish that other political aspirants vying for the presidency would visit IDP camps across the country to witness firsthand the harsh conditions faced by displaced Nigerians. Mr. Obi explained that his repeated visits to affected communities are intended to draw national attention to the severe humanitarian consequences of the ongoing insecurity.
“This is the third time I’m coming here to say what is happening here. I've been able to come here to build your school, provide water and everything,” he added, indicating prior philanthropic efforts.
Obi underscored that his current visit was not for campaigning purposes, but rather to reassure the displaced persons that they remain in his thoughts and that he harbours hope for their eventual safe return home. He assured camp leaders of his continued support within his capacity.
“Be assured that you are not alone. Be assured that we are feeling your pain. We are feeling your disappointment and everything. And we will continue from time to time to support in any way we can,” he concluded.