The 2023 Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi has expressed concern over the recent spike in kidnapping incidents, urging a reevaluation of the security approach and a focus on addressing the root causes of insecurity.
In a statement posted on X, Obi highlighted the failure of President Bola Tinubu’s security plan, citing the record-breaking 3,600 documented kidnappings in 2023.
He criticized the government’s emphasis on acquiring high-tech military equipment instead of addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as poverty, poor education, and public resentment towards army atrocities.
Obi further echoed the call for a more significant role for the police in domestic security, arguing that if they are well-equipped, they would be capable of leveraging better human intelligence.
In his statement Peter Obi also mentioned the issue of corruption within security spending, particularly emphasizing the alleged diversion of funds to reward those who supported Tinubu’s election.
In conclusion Obi called for the urgent need for radical change, urging a shift towards addressing the conditions for peace and filling the country’s fiscal hole.
He expressed concern over the potential misuse of funds, pointing to the recent approval of SUVs for lawmakers and a substantial budget for improving accommodations for the president and vice president.
Read more: Rihanna Stuns in Dior at Haute Couture Spring 2024