In a strong denunciation of the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has voiced his outrage over the tragic death of Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar, one of the sisters kidnapped and killed by abductors in Abuja.
Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi conveyed his sentiments via an official statement posted on his social media handle, decrying the abduction as a dire reflection of the pervasive insecurity plaguing Nigeria and the increasing vulnerability of its citizens.
He articulated, “The reported tragic killing of Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar, a student of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, who was kidnapped alongside her father and siblings in Abuja, by bandits, not only shows how insecurity currently ravages the nation but also shows how helpless Nigerians have become in the face of these dangers.”
Obi, an influential figure in Nigerian politics, did not mince words in addressing the severity of the situation. He continued, “The trauma being experienced by this family and the blood of this innocent child should prick our conscience as leaders, whose duty it is to protect the life of every Nigerian citizen.”
Furthermore, he highlighted the concerning geographical expansion of insecurity, stating, “The fact that these kidnappings, killings, and other reported cases of armed robbery and violent attacks are now taking place in Abuja, the nation’s capital, is a clear pointer to how insecure the rest of the country now is.”
Turning his attention to another incident, Obi expressed deep concern regarding the plight of Igwe Emmanuel Nnabuife, the traditional ruler of the Isseke community in Anambra State, who was left homeless after unknown assailants burnt down his palace on Friday. Obi remarked, “I am very concerned about how insecurity has continued to ravage every part of our dear nation.”
In a resounding call to action, Obi urged the government and security agencies to intensify their efforts to secure the release of the remaining family members held in captivity. He emphasized the need to prioritize national security and protect every Nigerian citizen.
The kidnapping of six girls in the Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory unfolded on Wednesday, January 3, 2024. Tragically, one of the sisters, Nabeehah, lost her life at the hands of her abductors after failing to meet the deadline for a N60 million ransom.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Isa Pantami, former Minister for Communication and Digital Economy, disclosed that a friend of his had offered to pay a N50 million ransom to secure the release of the five remaining kidnapped sisters. This offer came following a social media fundraising campaign initiated by concerned Nigerians.
As the nation grapples with the distressing reality of increasing insecurity, Peter Obi’s impassioned condemnation and plea for action underscore the urgent need for comprehensive efforts to address the pervasive threats facing Nigeria.
