In recognition of World Refugee Day, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has highlighted the plight of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Nigeria, stressing the need for dedicated leadership to all.
In a statement on X, Obi emphasised the need to celebrate the resilience and courage of those forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or natural disasters.
“Today, we join the global community in marking World Refugee Day, a significant opportunity to honour the strength and bravery of individuals who have had to leave their home country to escape danger,” Obi stated.
He also drew attention to the many Nigerians who, while still within the country, are living in refugee shelters and encampments due to internal conflicts and disasters.
Obi expressed deep concern over the situation of IDPs in Nigeria, noting that despite not being at war, Nigeria ranks as the third country with the most IDPs in Africa and is among the top 1o globally.
He reiterated his long-held belief that the ongoing displacement of Nigerians within their own country means that, in essence, “we are all refugees in Nigeria.”
Obi also called for more robust measures to combat the root causes of displacement, particularly insecurity, which he identified as the primary factor driving the increase in IDPs.
He urged enhanced support for those displaced, stressing the necessity of providing them with access to education and healthcare.
Obi also highlighted the plight of Nigerian refugees abroad. “In 2023, it was reported that the number of Nigerian refugees living in other countries stood at 336,862,” he noted.
The International Organisation for Migration reported that in the same year, at least 12,000 Nigerians perished while attempting to migrate through dangerous routes such as the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea.
Obi called for a renewed commitment to delivering dedicated and effective leadership to all Nigerians.
“Building a safe, secure nation that prioritises investment in education, health, and poverty eradication will greatly reduce the number of IDPs in our nation and Nigerian refugees in other countries,” he asserted.
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