Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has expressed disapproval over allegations of revenge attacks by the Nigerian Army following the murder of army officials in Okuoma, Bomadi LGA, Delta.
In a statement released on his official X account, Obi denounced the counterattack, arguing that vengeance on the community does not make up for the soldiers’ deaths.
Obi urged the security forces to show restraint and refrain from directing their frustration towards innocent community members. He stated, “Today, I joined other Nigerians in strongly condemning the senseless murder of peacekeeping security personnel in a Delta state community.
“This act is universally denounced and condemned by all conscientious Nigerians. However, the emerging troubling reports of the community being subjected to arson attacks are equally distasteful and misguided.
“In any circumstance, two wrongs do not make a right. Retaliatory arson attacks on the community do not rectify the initial wrong of the soldiers’ murder. It’s highly probable that these revenge attacks will result in the loss of innocent lives and the displacement of innocent citizens who were not involved in the heinous crimes. The appropriate and civilized course of action is to mobilize all resources to capture the actual culprits of the initial disgraceful act and hold them accountable.
“Despite the pain caused by the act, I implore the security agencies to show compassion and refrain from venting their anger on helpless community members. I have also learned that the Delta State Government had been managing this situation before it worsened.
“I encourage the Governor to continue his efforts to minimize damage. In this regard, he requires the cooperation of all community leaders to soothe tensions.”
