Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has warned that Nigeria is slipping into “avoidable disorder” due to escalating insecurity, institutional decay, and what he described as leadership failure.
In a statement on Monday, Obi expressed concern over what he termed “unprecedented negative news” recorded across the country within the last 10 days, noting that the situation reflects a breakdown in governance and national security.
“The past 10 days in Nigeria have witnessed unprecedented negative news, a level of chaos, insecurity, and institutional decay that should trouble the conscience of all the leaders,” he said. “Our country is now going through troubling times, not by fate, but by our collective leadership failures that allow insecurity, lawlessness, and institutional decay to thrive.”
Obi listed several violent incidents, including the killing of a Brigadier General, the abduction of 64 civilians in Zamfara, 25 schoolgirls in Kebbi, the attack on worshippers in Kwara, and the abduction of over 300 schoolchildren and teachers in Niger State.
He also condemned the recent kidnapping of 13 female farmers in Borno by suspected Boko Haram terrorists, describing the report as “devastating.” The women were abducted in the Mussa District of Askira-Uba Local Government Area while returning from their farms on Saturday evening. The incident was confirmed by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Nahum Daso, who said an investigation had been launched.
Obi criticised the Federal Government for what he called indifference and absentee leadership, warning that no country can survive under such conditions.
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“No serious nation survives on excuses, indifference, or absentee leadership,” he stated. “Nigeria is bleeding because those elected to protect the nation have chosen comfort over courage, politics over people, and power over purpose.”
He urged political leaders to prioritise competence, compassion, and accountability, stressing that governance is a duty to protect citizens.
“To every Nigerian shaken by the events of the past 10 days, my heart is with you. You deserve safety. You deserve peace. Nigeria must rise again,” Obi added.