Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the deadly explosions in Maiduguri, describing the country as “a nation under siege” and warning that insecurity is becoming dangerously normalised across Nigeria.
In a statement on his official X account on Tuesday, Obi expressed grief and outrage over the attacks, which reportedly claimed 23 lives and left more than a hundred others injured in coordinated explosions targeting vulnerable locations, including markets and areas near hospitals.
He said the incident was a grim reminder of what he described as a failure of governance, stressing that the primary responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property.
“The nation is once again engulfed in grief and outrage,” he said, lamenting that the recurring loss of innocent lives underscores how far the country has drifted from its fundamental obligations.
Recall that 23 persons were confirmed dead and about 105 others sustained injuries following a twin bomb explosions around Monday Market in Maiduguri, Borno State and near a security post at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
Obi decried what he termed a “disturbing silence” in the wake of such tragedies, warning that Nigerians risk accepting insecurity as a norm rather than confronting it decisively.
The former Anambra State governor pointed to a troubling pattern of violence across the country, citing recent attacks in Kwara State, Nasarawa State, Kogi State, Plateau State, Sokoto State, Benue State, and even within the Federal Capital Territory.
He further raised concerns about reports from Katsina State, where some communities are allegedly being forced to pay “peace taxes” to armed groups to avoid attacks, describing the development as both alarming and unacceptable.
“These moments test not only our security architecture but also the very essence of leadership,” Obi stated, calling for urgent and decisive action to address the crisis.
He urged leaders to prioritise national security above all else, including cancelling non-essential engagements in favour of visiting affected communities and coordinating immediate responses to safeguard lives.
Obi also extended his condolences to families of victims and wished the injured a speedy recovery, praying for strength and comfort for those affected by the attacks.
“We cannot continue down this path. Our nation must rise to protect its citizens with urgency, responsibility, and compassion,” he said.
While reiterating his signature message of hope, Obi noted that despite the prevailing challenges, a better Nigeria remains possible.
