The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has commended the recent decision by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oloyede, to relocate to Benue State in response to the region’s persistent and deadly security challenges.
Obi described the move as a significant and commendable step towards prioritizing the protection of lives in a state that has suffered relentless attacks from armed bandits and insurgents.
In a statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, the former Governor of Anambra State praised the symbolic and strategic value of the COAS relocating, along with his Principal Staff Officers, to Benue State.
“This decision signals a welcome shift toward prioritizing the security of a region that has endured far too much bloodshed,” Obi wrote.
Expressing concern over the human toll and persistent violence, Obi emphasized the need for lasting peace and justice in Benue, noting that residents deserve not just protection but also the freedom to live, farm, and work without fear.
“I earnestly pray that this action brings lasting change for the good and resilient people of Benue, who deserve not only protection but also meaningful justice,” he stated.
He further stressed that the blood of innocent Nigerians must not go unnoticed, adding that security and the preservation of lives must remain the paramount duty of any responsible and compassionate government.
Obi also extended his condolences to families and communities affected by the latest wave of killings in Benue, Kogi, and Plateau States, describing the pain and devastation as “heartbreaking and unacceptable.”
“The repeated assaults on peaceful communities, especially by armed non-state actors, must be tackled decisively. I continue to stand in solidarity with the affected victims and urge for concrete action to end the bloodshed,” he added.
Calling for urgent and comprehensive security reforms, Obi urged the federal government and relevant security agencies to take decisive, coordinated steps to dismantle armed groups threatening the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians, particularly in the Middle Belt and northern regions.
“Our people have endured enough. Every effort must now be made to stop these killings and restore peace to affected areas. Insecurity must not be normalized,” Obi said.
His remarks come amid heightened tensions in Benue, where deadly attacks on farming communities have claimed dozens of lives in recent months, displacing thousands and sparking renewed calls for government intervention.
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