Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly condemned the recent killings of Nigerian soldiers, describing the incidents as heartbreaking and unacceptable.
In a statement on Friday via his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi lamented the loss of at least 35 soldiers in recent attacks, emphasizing the devastating impact of insecurity on the nation’s armed forces.
According to reports, the most tragic of these incidents occurred in Malam-Fatori town, Borno State, where terrorists launched a deadly assault on a military base, killing about 20 soldiers.
A Nation in Mourning
Expressing deep sorrow over the killings, Obi paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of Nigerian troops who risk their lives daily to safeguard the country.
“Our courageous soldiers have remained resolute in the fight against insecurity. It is utterly heartbreaking to read reports of their tragic deaths, orchestrated by terrorists,” he stated.
Beyond the attack in Borno, Obi also reacted to another incident in Lagos, where four soldiers were reportedly killed when a vehicle lost control and crashed into them outside their barracks.
“Sadly, this morning too, I read the unpleasant reports of the unfortunate death of about four soldiers in Lagos. A vehicle was reported to have lost control and crashed into the soldiers outside the barracks,” he said.
Calls for Resilience and Support
Obi extended his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and the Nigerian Army, urging them not to be discouraged by these painful losses.
“I sincerely condole with the families of all the dead soldiers and the Nigerian Army over these tragic incidents. I encourage them not to be dispirited by these painful attacks but to strengthen their resolve to stamp out this monster of insecurity from our nation,” he added.
He also prayed for the souls of the deceased soldiers and wished a speedy recovery for those injured in the attacks.
“May God grant eternal rest to the dead, grant us all the fortitude to bear their losses, and grant quick healing to the injured,” Obi concluded.
The increasing attacks on military personnel highlight the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria, raising concerns about the need for enhanced strategies to protect the nation’s security forces and citizens.