Peter Obi Condemns Benue Massacre: “A Safe Benue Is Not Too Much to Ask”

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the devastating night raid in Benue State that claimed the lives of over 200 people. In a statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Obi described the incident as “a national tragedy” and urged the Federal Government to act swiftly and decisively to safeguard citizens.

“This level of carnage is unacceptable. A safe Benue is not too much to ask,” he wrote, stressing that every Nigerian deserves security and protection, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political leaning.

The deadly attack reportedly took place in the late hours of Sunday in various communities within Katsina-Ala and Ukum local government areas. Eyewitnesses and human rights groups reported that armed men stormed the villages, shooting indiscriminately, setting homes ablaze, and forcing hundreds to flee.

Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives, Obi extended his condolences to affected families and communities, urging authorities to thoroughly investigate the massacre.
“We must not allow Nigeria to become a killing field. The perpetrators must be found and prosecuted,” he said.

Obi criticized the repeated failure of Nigeria’s security agencies to prevent such atrocities, especially in rural regions that have become increasingly vulnerable.
“Benue has suffered too many times, and we cannot normalize this violence,” he added.

His statement echoed broader concerns raised by civil society groups and security experts, who have decried the government’s silence and the slow response to such tragedies. Many argue that rural areas in the Middle Belt continue to face insecurity with little intervention.

Reaffirming his belief that security is foundational to national progress, Obi said:
“No meaningful development can occur where there is fear, bloodshed, and displacement.

He concluded with a firm call for holistic security reforms and stronger community-based intelligence networks to prevent future bloodshed.
“Enough is enough. The people of Benue deserve peace, dignity, and the right to life.”