Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned the coordinated suicide bombings in Maiduguri, describing the incident as a reflection of worsening insecurity across the country.
In a statement shared via his X account on Tuesday, Obi expressed grief and outrage over the attacks, saying the nation was once again faced with tragedy.
“The nation is once again engulfed in grief and outrage following the horrific explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State, yesterday,” he said.
The attacks, which occurred on Monday night, targeted the Maiduguri Monday Market, the Post Office, and an area near the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. The coordinated bombings claimed 23 lives and left more than 100 people injured.
Families of victims have since begun searching for loved ones who were present at the affected locations during the blasts.
Reacting further, Obi described the incident as a stark reminder of the government’s core responsibility to protect lives and property.
“These tragic events serve as a painful reminder of how far we have strayed from the fundamental duty of governance,” he said.
He also expressed concern over what he termed a muted national response, warning that repeated incidents of violence risk becoming normalised.
“The silence from our nation in response to such atrocities indicates a disturbing normalisation of insecurity rather than a decisive confrontation with the issue,” Obi added.
The former Anambra State governor linked the Maiduguri attacks to a broader pattern of insecurity across several states, including Kwara, Nasarawa, Kogi, Plateau, Sokoto, Benue, and even parts of the Federal Capital Territory.
He further raised alarm over reports from Katsina State, where some communities are allegedly being forced to pay a “peace tax” to armed groups to avoid attacks.
Calling for urgent leadership, Obi stressed the need for immediate action and prioritisation of security efforts.
“These moments test not only our security architecture but also the very essence of leadership. Such a grave national emergency requires immediate presence, attention, and action,” he said.
He also urged authorities to reconsider non-essential engagements in favour of addressing the crisis and visiting affected communities.
The police have confirmed the attacks and stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Obi extended his condolences to the victims and their families, offering prayers for the deceased and those receiving treatment.
“During this time of grief, my thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost loved ones, as well as those who are injured and fighting to recover,” he said.
