We Can’t Keep Counting Bodies — Obi Tackles Tinubu Government Over Benue, Plateau, Niger Attacks

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has criticised the Federal Government over renewed attacks in Benue, Plateau and Niger states.

Obi expressed concern over the growing loss of lives, abductions and destruction of property, warning that Nigeria could not continue to record casualties without addressing the underlying security crisis.

In a statement on Sunday, the former Anambra State governor said recent incidents across the three North-Central states demonstrated the urgent need for stronger security measures.

He cited an attack in Jwak Maitumbi, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, where at least 23 people were officially reported killed. Residents, however, reportedly claimed that the death toll was higher.

More than 45 houses were also reportedly destroyed during the attack.

Obi also highlighted violence in Borgu, Niger State, where more than 40 people were reportedly killed and over 100 others abducted. He noted that figures surrounding the incident remained subject to conflicting reports.

The former governor further pointed to repeated attacks in Benue State, where communities have continued to face killings, abductions and destruction of homes and sources of livelihood.

He argued that the incidents should not be treated as isolated occurrences, but as part of a broader national security challenge requiring a coordinated response.

“Nigeria is not officially at war, yet citizens are being attacked in their villages, abducted after prayers, driven from their homes and stripped of their farms,” Obi said.

He called on governments at all levels to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve the ability of security agencies to respond rapidly to threats.

Obi also urged authorities to prioritise the rescue of abducted citizens and ensure that perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted.

According to him, the responsibility of government extends beyond responding to attacks after they occur and must include preventing violence before it happens.

“We cannot keep counting bodies after every attack. We must prevent these attacks before they happen,” he said.

Obi stressed that protecting lives and property remains one of the fundamental responsibilities of government.

He warned that continued insecurity could further undermine communities, agriculture, economic activity and public confidence in the ability of the state to protect its citizens.

“Nigeria must not become a killing field,” he added.