The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi has reacted to the recent relocation of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Olufemi Oloyede to Benue State.
Obi described Oloyede’s move to Benue on the heels of the incessant killings in the state as a shift towards prioritising the security of the people.
In a post on X, the former governor of Anambra State said the people of Benue have had to endure much bloodshed and all strategy is needed to put a stop to the killings.
He wrote, “I commend the recent move by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Olufemi Oloyede, to relocate along with Principal Staff Officers to Benue State.
“This decision signals a welcome shift toward prioritizing the security of a region that has endured far too much bloodshed,” Obi wrote.
Hoping that the relocation of the COAS and other key officials of the Nigerian Army brings a lasting solution and peace in Benue, Obi said the people of the state deserve meaningful justice.
“I earnestly pray that this action brings lasting change for the good and resilient people of Benue, who deserve not only protection but also meaningful justice, and the freedom to live, farm, and work in peace without fear.
“The blood of innocent Nigerians cries out for justice. The security and survival of our people must be the foremost responsibility of any government that claims to be responsible and compassionate,” Obi noted.
He also condoled with the people and the families of those who were killed in the attacks by armed bandits in the state.
Obi, who described the pain experienced by Benue, Kogi, and Plateau people as heartbreaking said such attacks are unacceptable.
He assured that he wiloukd continue to stand in solidarity with those affected by the armed bandit attack to ensure that efforts are made towards addressing the insecurity.
Obi called for urgent and comprehensive action towards ending the incessant killing of innocent Nigerians by insurgents and other criminals.