Peter Obi Seeks Action To End Plateau Killings, Displacement

JOS - Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, has urged the Federal Government to take decisive action to end killings and displacement in Plateau State.

Obi made the call on Tuesday during a sympathy visit to an Internally Displaced Persons, IDP, camp in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, where thousands of residents are currently taking refuge.

"45,000 Residents From 20+ Communities Displaced"

Speaking to victims, Obi expressed concern over the scale of displacement caused by insecurity in the state.

"About 45,000 residents from more than 20 communities have been forced out of their homes,"

He described the continued existence of IDP camps as unacceptable, saying displaced persons should be assisted to return safely to their homes.

"As Long As You Are In An IDP Camp, Nigeria Is In An IDP Camp"

Obi told the displaced persons that the nation cannot be at peace while citizens remain in camps.

"As long as you are in an IDP camp, Nigeria is in an IDP camp. It is when you go home that Nigeria is at home. You are not supposed to be here,"

He added that his visit was not for campaign but "a show of solidarity with victims of insecurity."

Watch: Peter Obi Addresses IDP Victims in Mangu

Obi: "Government Must Act, Not Just Prayers"

While acknowledging the role of prayers, the former Anambra governor said government has the primary responsibility to protect lives.

"I hear people say we need prayers. Yes, we need prayers. But government must act. The people coming to kill are not from the moon. We know them. The Nigerian government should be able to deal with it,"

He also called on the Federal Government to urgently address killings and kidnappings contributing to displacement, particularly in Plateau and Benue states.

Impact On Education

Obi lamented the effect of insecurity on children's education, noting that the destruction of communities had disrupted learning for many young people.

The NDC presidential candidate began a two-state outreach in Plateau on April 13, aimed at identifying with victims of recent attacks.