Our Reporter, Abuja
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the recent designation of Nigeria by the United States government as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC), warning that the move and reports of possible military action should worry every well-meaning Nigerian.
In a statement issued on Monday, Obi said the U.S. position was a reflection of Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation, which he described as “unprecedented,” with massive loss of lives and property across the country.
Citing Amnesty International’s report that over 10,000 people have been killed in Nigeria since May 2023, Obi lamented the “unwarranted and unprovoked” killings, calling for immediate and decisive actions to stop the bloodshed.
“The unwarranted killing of Nigerians is most condemnable, and all efforts must be made to bring it to a stop,” he said.
“It is equally important to state that the terrible situation is significantly avoidable with competent leadership and governance.”
The former Anambra State governor blamed the worsening insecurity on what he termed the “lack and absence of competence, commitment, prudent use of resources, patriotism, and passion” within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government.
“While the insecurity did not start with the present government, what is most unfortunate is the failure of the APC-led leadership to effectively govern, galvanise, and lead Nigeria to a state where no one is unwarrantedly oppressed and killed — a nation where peace, truth, and justice reign,” Obi added.
He further noted that Nigeria and the United States have historically maintained strong diplomatic and security partnerships, which he urged both countries to sustain through constructive dialogue rather than confrontation.
“As democracies, Nigeria and the U.S. have long been strategic partners committed to regional peace and security. That relationship should not falter,” Obi stated.
He called for “constructive diplomatic and other plausible engagements” between both nations to urgently address the security challenges and restore peace across Nigeria.
“The present situation calls for both countries to work in concert and expeditiously towards that purpose,” Obi concluded.
