Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has called for urgent action to address Nigeria’s worsening security challenges, following a visit to Katsina State where he met with political stakeholders and sympathised with victims of recent killings.
In a statement shared via his official X account on Monday, Obi disclosed that his visit followed a prior engagement in Kaduna. While in Katsina, he held consultations with key figures within his political movement, including Dr. Mustapha M. Inuwa and Lawal Musa Daura, among others.
The former Anambra State governor expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in the state, describing the killings as a painful reflection of Nigeria’s persistent insecurity.
“The loss of innocent lives is a painful reminder of the urgent need to prioritise security and protect every Nigerian life. A nation that fails to safeguard its citizens cannot truly progress,” Obi stated.
During the meeting, Obi emphasised the need for a renewed national focus on democratic values and people-centred governance. He urged stakeholders to prioritise investments in women and youth, noting that empowering these groups is critical to sustainable national development.
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He also called for a shift away from divisive politics rooted in ethnicity, religion, and entitlement, advocating instead for leadership based on merit, integrity, and competence.
“The Nigeria of our dreams will not emerge by chance; it requires deliberate effort,” he said, adding that the country’s challenges, though significant, remain surmountable with the right leadership approach.
Obi further encouraged Nigerians to remain committed to nation-building through collective responsibility and consistent effort, stressing that meaningful change requires both leadership accountability and citizen participation.
His visit comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in northern Nigeria, particularly in states like Katsina, where recurring attacks have continued to impact local communities and heighten calls for comprehensive security reforms.