•Knocks leadership as he laments country’s ordeal

By BONIFACE AKARAH

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential frontrunner, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, following its ranking among the most terrorised countries globally in the latest Global Terrorism Index report.

Obi described the development as a “painful indictment of failed leadership,” noting that while many countries are recording declines in terrorism, Nigeria continues to witness an increase in deaths linked to violent attacks.

“This is a direct result of misplaced priorities, weak governance, corruption, a lack of rule of law, and the persistent neglect of security,” he said.

The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate warned that the country’s deteriorating security landscape reflects a failure of government to fulfil its primary responsibility of protecting lives and property.

“What is the purpose of government if it cannot protect lives? Why are we normalizing tragedy while other nations make progress?” Obi queried.

He highlighted the continued threat posed by insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, alongside rising cases of kidnapping and banditry across rural communities.

According to him, Nigerians are increasingly exposed to violence while those in authority fail to take decisive action.

“Nigerians are dying daily while those in power continue to feast,” he said.

Obi stressed that the country must urgently change course, calling for a shift from what he described as excuses to concrete action and measurable progress in tackling insecurity.

“This is not the Nigeria we should accept. We cannot continue down this path,” he said.

He added that ensuring safety and security remains a fundamental right of every citizen and must be treated as a priority by those in leadership.