Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the killing of traders, including a pregnant woman, by a state-backed security outfit in Onitsha, Anambra State.
In a statement shared via his X handle on Tuesday, Obi described the incident as deeply troubling, particularly at a time when Nigeria is battling worsening insecurity and renewed calls for the adoption of state policing.
“At a time when our nation is grappling with serious security challenges, with everyone looking for ways to mitigate them, even supporting state policing, it is very worrisome that already state-backed outfits, that were created to help with the situation and improve security, are instead worsening the plight of the already terrorised citizens and sometimes acting even worse than the criminals they were meant to confront,” Obi said.
He stressed that the tragic shooting underscored the urgent need for proper scrutiny, reorganisation, and accountability of state-backed security groups.
Obi also recalled a previous case involving the Udo Ga-Achi Security Outfit in Anambra, which had allegedly brutalised a youth corps member.
“Last time, it was a different group, Udo Ga-Achi Security Outfit in Anambra, that brutally assaulted a youth corper. This time, another outfit is shooting and killing innocent citizens. The security situation in Anambra appears to be deteriorating further. The activities of this group must be thoroughly investigated, and all those responsible for this heinous act must be brought to justice,” he declared.
The former Anambra governor insisted that security agencies and community outfits must be properly vetted, trained, and closely monitored to prevent abuse.
“We must have outfits that are well-scrutinised and do not operate outside the law. Security agencies and community outfits should be carefully vetted, trained, and monitored to ensure professionalism and accountability in their activities. Without proper oversight, what is meant to safeguard lives can easily become a threat to the very people it is supposed to protect,” he warned.
Obi extended his condolences to the families of the victims, praying for comfort and strength.
“My deepest sympathy goes to the families of the victims. May they find strength and comfort and may the departed rest in peace,” he added.
