Peter Obi visits victims of Benue attacks, calls for action on security

Former Anambra State governor and presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has visited communities hit by recent attacks in Benue State. He urged the federal government to do more to protect lives and property.

Obi shared this on his official Facebook page on Friday after visiting Otukpo-Nobi and Efeyi-Ugboju communities in Otukpo Local Government Area.

He went to Otukpo-Nobi, where over 10 people were killed or reported missing in an attack. He also visited Efeyi-Ugboju, where more than 13 people were said to have been killed.

During his visit, he joined community members at the mass burial site in Otukpo-Nobi to pray for the victims. He also visited injured survivors in the hospital.

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

Obi was informed during his visit that 14 people were kidnapped along Ankpechi Road earlier that morning. He called the government’s duty to protect citizens a “sacred obligation.” He stated that communities suffering from violence should not be left to deal with continuous attacks alone.

“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.

Obi's visit comes amid a wave of deadly attacks in Benue South. PREMIUM TIMES reported that suspected armed herders attacked Otukpo-Nobi on July 12, killing at least 10 residents and injuring many others.

On July 28, another attack happened at Efeyi-Ugboju in the same local government area. Local authorities and residents said at least 15 people were killed in that early-morning attack.

The attack caused widespread fear in nearby communities, with residents fleeing their homes and demanding better security.

A mass burial was held for the victims of the Efeyi-Ugboju attack on August 9, with 15 white caskets placed to rest as families and community members mourned.

These latest attacks have raised worries about insecurity in Otukpo and other parts of Benue. Communities have faced repeated attacks despite the presence of security agencies.

Obi expressed his sympathy for the victims and their families. He prayed for the souls of those killed and the quick recovery of those injured.

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