Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has broken his silence on Nigeria's escalating security crisis and political turmoil, condemning recent violent attacks and alleging government interference in opposition parties.
National Security Crisis Deepens
Armed assailants attacked a church in Kwara state during a service, killing at least two worshippers and abducting the pastor along with several other congregants. This violent assault occurred just days after terrorists kidnapped 25 schoolgirls in Kebbi state, highlighting the worsening security situation across Nigeria.
The former Anambra state governor expressed grave concern about these developments, stating that the nation faces critical challenges that demand unity rather than political distractions.
Political Turmoil Erupts in PDP
The Peoples Democratic Party crisis reached a boiling point on Tuesday, November 18, when factions led by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and party governors clashed violently at the party's Abuja headquarters.
Police operatives fired teargas to disperse rowdy supporters engaged in physical confrontations and shouting matches. The chaos erupted when both the Wike-backed faction and the newly-elected national working committee led by Kabiru Turaki scheduled parallel meetings at Wadata Plaza on the same day.
Turaki accused Wike of sponsoring thugs who wielded cudgels outside the gates and chanted protest songs. He also alleged that police officers provided protection for those responsible for the unrest.
Obi's Strong Allegations Against Government
In a signed statement shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) page on Wednesday, November 19, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate made serious allegations against the Bola Tinubu administration.
Peter Obi claimed that the crises rocking the Peoples Democratic Party, Labour Party, and Social Democratic Party are "deliberately orchestrated" by the federal government. He asserted that the Tinubu administration "seems more intent on weakening parties than strengthening our democracy."
The former governor contrasted the current situation with the administration of former President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, recalling that Yar'Adua had instructed the INEC Chairman, Professor Maurice Iwu, that the stability of every political party—not just the ruling party—was essential for democracy.
Obi concluded his statement by emphasizing that in proper democratic nations, "opposition is respected, elections reflect the will of the people, and governance involves carrying everyone along for peace and prosperity."
The political leader also referenced the recent killing of Brigadier-General M. Uba by ISWAP terrorists in Borno state, describing it as a tragic and painful loss that underscores the urgent need for improved security measures across Nigeria.
