The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, Peter Obi has called for the immediate rescue of worshippers abducted in Enugu State, warning that Nigeria’s worsening insecurity now poses a threat to every citizen.
Obi made the call in a statement posted on his official social media page on Monday while reacting to the abduction of church members in the state.
Describing the incident as heartbreaking, the former Anambra State governor said no Nigerian should have to fear attending a place of worship, going to work, school or even remaining at home because of criminal attacks.
“I have been deeply dismayed by the recent news concerning the abduction of worshippers in Enugu. It is profoundly distressing that fellow Nigerians, who had come together in divine worship seeking solace and hope, have endured such a traumatic and criminal ordeal,” he said.
Obi argued that the country’s security crisis has spread beyond states traditionally associated with violent attacks, noting that no region is now immune from insecurity.
“It is increasingly clear that this is no longer an isolated incident affecting specific states like Borno, Benue, Plateau, Zamfara, or Katsina. It has escalated into a national crisis, threatening every Nigerian, regardless of their ethnic background, religious beliefs, or regional origins,” he stated.
He urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted worshippers and ensure that those behind the attack are arrested and prosecuted.
“I call on all relevant security agencies to intensify their efforts to ensure the safe return of the abducted persons and to swiftly apprehend and bring to justice those responsible,” Obi said.
The former presidential candidate also appealed to Nigerians to put aside political, ethnic and religious differences in addressing the country’s security challenges, insisting that protecting lives should remain the government’s highest priority.
“The inviolability of human life must remain the highest priority for any government. We cannot accept these tragedies as a new normal. Every Nigerian life is invaluable, and every possible measure must be taken to protect it,” he added.
Obi expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its security challenges, saying, “Despite the threats, a new Nigeria is possible with God on our side.”
