Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, on Tuesday, condemned the recent deadly explosions in Maiduguri, describing the incident as a grim reflection of Nigeria’s worsening security situation.

Obi on his verified ‘X’ handle on Tuesday said the tragic attacks, which reportedly claimed several lives and left over a hundred others injured, showed the failure of the President Bola Tinubu-led government to uphold its primary responsibility of protecting lives and property.

Obi lamented what he described as the growing normalisation of insecurity across the country.

“The fact that innocent Nigerians can be killed in multiple coordinated attacks, with many others injured, shows how far we have strayed from the fundamental duty of governance,” he said.

He further noted that the nation’s muted response to such incidents reflected a dangerous trend of complacency in the face of persistent violence.

The former Anambra State governor also linked the Maiduguri explosions to a broader pattern of insecurity affecting several parts of the country, including Kwara State, Nasarawa State, Kogi State, Plateau State, Sokoto State and Benue State, as well as parts of the Federal Capital Territory.

He expressed particular concern over reports from Katsina State, where some communities are allegedly being forced to pay levies, described as “peace tax,” to armed groups to avoid attacks.

According to him, the current situation demands urgent and decisive leadership, stressing that moments like these test not only the country’s security architecture but also the commitment of its leaders.

“This is a grave national emergency that requires immediate presence, attention, and action,” Obi stated.

He urged authorities to prioritise visiting affected communities and implementing concrete measures to protect citizens.

He also extended condolences to victims of the Maiduguri attacks, praying for the repose of the deceased and speedy recovery for the injured.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones, and those who are injured and fighting to recover,” he said.

Obi concluded by calling for a renewed national resolve to confront insecurity, insisting that Nigeria must act urgently to safeguard its citizens.

“We cannot continue down this path. Our nation must rise to protect its people with urgency, responsibility, and compassion,” he added. (The Sun)