Former Governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last general election, Peter Obi, has condemned the killing of 32 persons in Imo State by unknown gunmen, describing it as “barbaric” and “a reminder of Nigeria’s failure to protect its own citizens”.
The Labour Party chieftain said that the continued killings were a pointer to a poignant reminder of Nigeria’s collective failure as a nation.
He also called for the identification, arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators, describing it as another level of embarrassing barbarism in Nigeria
In a statement posted on X, Obi said, “Again, we have been confronted with another senseless killing in the country, this time in Imo state, where about 30 people were murdered by gunmen.
“This marks yet another level of embarrassing barbarism in a society already battling an unprecedented level of insecurity. Violent killings, horror and fear have continued to define our daily lives in our nation.
”This inhuman act must be condemned by all. We cannot expect to build a responsible society of humans when we continually desecrate human life without provocation. Such a level of violence and criminality must not continue to have a place in our nation.
”These recurring attacks, violence and killing are a poignant reminder of our collective failure as a nation, gradually losing sense of the sanctity of life and becoming accustomed to terror. The time is now to break this ugly trend of senseless killings in our nation.
”The government must, at this point, rise up to its duties of protection of lives and property. Nigerians cannot continue to live in fear for their lives. Such a level of insecurity is not only inimical to human development but also hinders economic growth and development.
”I urge the government to investigate, arrest and bring the perpetrators of this mayhem to book. I extend my sincere condolences to all the families who lost their loved ones in this very tragic occurrence. May God grant them eternal rest,” he said.
C- Advocate reports that Gunmen killed 32 people in Imo State, during a violent attack on travelers along the Okigwe-Owerri road.
The attack involved the assailants blocking the highway early in the morning, shooting indiscriminately, and setting ablaze more than 20 vehicles, including commuter buses and trucks.
The incident caused widespread panic and chaos, and security forces have launched a manhunt for the suspects, with one attacker reportedly neutralized by the police.