By Chuks Okocha

The presidential candidate in last year’s election under the Labour Party (LP) and former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on the federal government and the security agencies to rise up and put an end to the wanton killings in Nigeria.

Obi stressed that for the umpteenth time, Nigerians again woke up to the continued reports of highly condemnable acts of violence reoccurring across the country.

Obi, who stated this via his verified X handle, lamented that: “First was the reported killing of about 30 persons in Plateau State, and secondly, the gruesome killing of husband and wife in Anambra State, whose bodies were left in the boot of their vehicle by the roadside, among many other violent crimes that go unreported in our nation.

“While condemning these dastardly and despicable acts in totality, one wonders when we will wake up to the news of this insecurity that has continued to undermine the peace and progress of our country being curtailed.

“This constant loss of precious lives to insecurity demands that more concerted efforts be taken to end the menace.”

Obi pointed out that he would continue to appeal to everyone, the leaders, especially those in office and the security agencies, to strive harder to unravel and bring the perpetrators of crime to book, and continue to make efforts to rid society of crime and violence.

“I condole with the affected families who have lost their loved ones to the raging insecurity in the country, while praying to God to grant eternal rest to the dead. These are very difficult times in our country, but we must conquer this monster of insecurity to be able to enjoy the New Nigeria of our dreams,” he added.

Over 30 persons were killed and several houses destroyed, in Kwahaslalek and the surrounding communities in Plateau State during the week, as gunmen defied the 24-hour curfew imposed on Mangu Local Government Area by the State government, on Tuesday.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang had declared a 24-hour curfew in Mangu, following the deteriorating security situation in the area, stressing that only persons on essential duties were allowed to move within the local government until further notice.

However, despite the curfew, gunmen stormed Kwahaslalek and its environs, killed more man 30 persons and destroyed several houses and worship centres.

Originally published at Thisday