Former Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has condemned the recent wave of killings in Kwara State, describing the incident as tragic and a reflection of the nation’s deepening security crisis.
In a statement shared on X on Thursday, Obi said he was “deeply saddened” by reports that gunmen attacked communities such as Woro and Nuku, allegedly killing more than 150 people.
He extended his condolences to the bereaved families, as well as the government and residents of the state.
“Every loss of innocent life is tragic, and these killings represent a major failure for us as a nation,” he wrote.
The former Anambra State governor noted that the persistent violence across different parts of the country highlights the urgent need for decisive action against insecurity, warning that Nigeria’s situation has deteriorated beyond levels seen in some conflict-ridden countries.
“These recurring acts of violence across our country, now worse than what occurs in some countries at war, underscore the urgent need for us, as a nation, to declare war on insecurity of lives and property and to deploy every possible means to end this scourge,” Obi stated.
He called on relevant authorities to respond promptly by restoring peace in the affected areas, ensuring perpetrators are brought to justice, and reassuring citizens of their safety.
The massacre has since drawn widespread condemnation from political figures, civil society organisations and community members, many of whom have called for intensified military operations and a stronger security presence in the region.
In response, security personnel have been deployed to the affected communities to prevent further attacks, while government officials have assured the public that those responsible will be identified and prosecuted.