Peter Obi Raises Alarm Over Insecurity in Borno, Urges Urgent Federal Action

Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Borno State, particularly in the Marte area, calling for immediate federal intervention to avert a humanitarian disaster.

In a statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi described the situation as “very unsettling,” warning that the crisis in Marte is not just a regional emergency but a national alarm that requires urgent attention from federal authorities.

Obi also commended Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for his bold leadership, noting the governor’s decision to spend the night in a threatened community as a powerful example of “present, proactive, and people-centred” governance.

“Governor Zulum, by choosing to spend the night in a town under threat, has once again demonstrated what leadership should look like,” Obi said. “His courage is not for commendation alone; it is a challenge to those in authority to match words with decisive action.”

The former Anambra State governor criticized what he described as a “culture of delayed response and distant governance,” urging the federal government to prioritize reinforcement of security forces and protection for displaced citizens.

According to Obi, over 300 communities remain exposed to terrorist threats, and more than 20,000 residents have been displaced, as insurgents reportedly regroup around the Lake Chad region and Mandara Hills. He echoed Governor Zulum’s warning that Marte is on the verge of collapse and that the window for intervention is closing fast.

“These are not just numbers—they are families, children, and communities whose hopes are hanging by a thread,” Obi stated. “We cannot claim to be building a secure and united Nigeria while a sitting governor is left pleading for federal support to prevent a local government from falling into the hands of terrorists.”

Obi reiterated his long-standing position that Nigeria’s progress depends on compassionate, competent, and courageous leadership, urging those in power to act with urgency and sincerity.

“If we fail to protect Borno, we fail the idea of Nigeria itself,” he warned. “This is not about politics. It is about people. It is about protecting the soul of our nation. Let us act quickly, decisively, and justly. A new Nigeria is possible.”