Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has raised fresh alarm over the worsening security situation in Nigeria.
He said many Nigerians are now taking instructions directly from terrorists because the government has failed to protect them.
Speaking during an interactive session Obi explained that when people lose hope in the government they begin to listen to criminals and terrorists for survival. He said this is a very dangerous sign that shows how bad things have become.
The situation is so bad that some communities now receive instructions from terrorists on when to farm when to go to the market and even when to stay indoors. This means the terrorists have taken over control in many areas Obi said.
He blamed the rising insecurity on poor leadership and lack of serious action from the government. According to him the country is sliding deeper into chaos because the authorities are not doing enough to fight bandits kidnappers and terrorists.
Obi stressed that a government that cannot protect its citizens cannot claim to be in charge. He warned that if nothing is done quickly the situation will get even worse and more people will turn to terrorists for direction.
This strong comment from Obi comes as attacks by bandits and terrorists continue in different parts of the country especially in the North West and North Central regions. Many communities live in fear and some farmers have stopped going to their farms because of constant threats.
Obi who is now aligned with the African Democratic Congress used the opportunity to call for better security strategies and urgent action to restore peace and confidence in the country.
The ruling government has not yet responded to Obi’s latest criticism. In the past they have said they are working hard to tackle insecurity through military operations and other measures.
Many Nigerians are worried that the situation is getting out of hand. They want the government to show real results in the fight against terrorism and banditry so that people can live and work without fear.
Obi’s statement has sparked fresh debate online with some people agreeing that insecurity has reached a dangerous level while others see it as political talk. The former governor insisted that true leadership must first guarantee the safety of every citizen before talking about development.
