Former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has faulted Nigerian political leaders for concentrating on 2027 election strategies while insecurity continues to escalate across the country.
In a statement released on Sunday via his verified social media account, Obi said more than 1,000 Nigerians were reportedly killed within the first two months of 2026, with several others abducted in violent attacks across multiple states.
He described the development as alarming, noting that communities in Zamfara, Kwara, Ondo, Kebbi, Edo, Benue, Adamawa and Plateau states, among others, have experienced killings, kidnappings and mass displacement.
According to him, violent incidents have been recorded in over 25 states across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones since the beginning of the year. He cited attacks on villages, worship centres and travellers, as well as kidnappings carried out by armed groups.
Obi argued that the scale of fatalities within the short period exceeds figures seen in some countries officially at war. He added that public discussions among political actors appear to prioritise zoning arrangements, party structures and campaign calculations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Referencing recent violence in Plateau State, the former governor said families in affected communities have continued to bury victims of armed attacks while political conversations remain dominated by electoral considerations.
He stressed that leadership should place the protection of lives at the centre of governance, rather than focusing primarily on electoral victories.
Obi further stated that national priorities must reflect the sanctity of human life, adding that leaders would ultimately be judged by their response to the security crisis.
His remarks come amid persistent attacks in parts of the North-West and North-Central regions, where armed bandits and other criminal groups have carried out raids on rural communities.
In February, gunmen reportedly attacked Tungan Dutse village in Zamfara State, killing dozens and abducting residents. Similar incidents have been documented in Plateau and neighbouring states, contributing to growing displacement and insecurity across affected areas.
