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| Mr. Peter Obi |
Leading opposition figure and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Mr. Peter Obi, has decried the latest wave of insecurity ravaging Nigeria, describing the country as “a nation under siege” following yesterday’s deadly explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State.
In a strongly worded statement, posted on his verified X formerly Twitter handle, Obi, who is also positioning as a leading presidential aspirant for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2027 general elections, lamented the tragic loss of lives and the apparent indifference of the federal government.
“The nation is once again engulfed in grief and outrage following the horrific explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State, yesterday (Monday),” Obi said. “These tragic events serve as a painful reminder of how far we have strayed from the fundamental duty of governance: the protection of lives and property.”
He highlighted the coordinated attacks that killed several innocent Nigerians and injured over a hundred others in crowded markets and near hospitals, calling it a “troubling reality” amid a nationwide pattern of violence.
Obi pointed to recent assaults in Kwara, Nasarawa, Kogi, Plateau, Sokoto, Benue, and even the Federal Capital Territory, as well as reports from Katsina where communities are forced to pay a “Peace Tax” to armed groups for survival.
Obi’s remarks come amid escalating criticism of the Tinubu administration’s handling of insecurity, with many Nigerians demanding urgent reforms ahead of the 2027 polls. Obi’s statement has sparked widespread reactions on social media, amplifying calls for accountability.
Below is full text of his statement:
“The nation is once again engulfed in grief and outrage following the horrific explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State, yesterday (Monday, March 16, 2026). These tragic events serve as a painful reminder of how far we have strayed from the fundamental duty of governance: the protection of lives and property.
“The fact that several innocent Nigerians can be killed in multiple coordinated attacks, with over a hundred others injured in vulnerable places like markets and near hospitals, highlights a troubling reality. The silence from our nation in response to such atrocities indicates a disturbing normalization of insecurity rather than a decisive confrontation with the issue.
“In light of recent attacks in Kwara, Nasarawa, Kogi, Plateau, Sokoto, Benue, and even within the Federal Capital Territory, the pattern of insecurity is deeply concerning. In some regions, such as Katsina, there are alarming reports of communities being coerced into paying a "Peace Tax" to armed groups just to avoid further attacks and ensure their survival.
“These moments test not only our security architecture but also the very essence of leadership. Such a grave national emergency requires immediate presence, attention, and action. It is crucial to cancel any planned trips to visit affected communities in favor of prioritizing efforts to safeguard lives.
“During this time of grief, my thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost loved ones, as well as those who are injured and fighting to recover. May God grant eternal rest to the departed, comfort the bereaved, and provide strength and healing to all affected.
“We cannot continue down this path. Our nation must rise to protect its citizens with urgency, responsibility, and compassion.
“A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO”
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