The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned the recent bandit attacks in Ungushi, Sokoto State, where 28-32 residents including a chief imam and farmers were killed, and herder assaults in Ukum, Benue, that left more dead and injured.

Reacting to the tragic incidents on Tuesday via a post on his official X account, Obi also called for an end to the cycle of killings in Nigeria.

The post highlighted ongoing rural insecurity challenges across Nigeria’s northwest and north-central regions, stressing the human toll on families, farmers, and communities while calling for lasting peace.

“The killings in Ungushi, Sokoto, where 32 Nigerians reportedly lost their lives, and the recent attacks in Ukum, Benue, where more lives have been lost and several others injured, are deeply painful,” Obi said.

“These are not just numbers. They are parents, children, farmers, and breadwinners whose lives have been cut short, leaving families devastated and communities in fear.”

As a leading opposition voice and 2027 presidential aspirant, he urged all government levels to prioritise intelligence, swift security responses, community protection, and prosecution of perpetrators to break the cycle of violence.

“We cannot continue with a cycle of killings, condolences, promises, and inaction. The government at all levels must prioritise addressing insecurity,” said the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in 2023.

“We need better intelligence, proactive security, swift responses, protection for vulnerable communities, and the diligent prosecution of perpetrators.

“The government must endeavour to protect the lives and property of its citizens. Nigerians should be able to sleep peacefully in their homes, travel safely on our roads, and go to their farms without fear.”

The former Governor of Anambra State also extended his condolences to the families and communities affected by these senseless killings.

“May God comfort the bereaved, may Almighty Allah forgive the departed, and may our nation find lasting peace,” Obi said.