Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has reacted to designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) by US President Donald Trump and the subsequent threat of a military action, saying the development was a result of failed leadership and poor governance in the country.
The former Anambra State governor who reacted to Trump’s threat to invade Nigeria with military force over alleged Christian genocide, said instead of waving away the threats, they should give every Nigerian serious concern.
In a post on his official X handle on Monday, Obi also expressed deep concern over Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC), and called for diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and the US to resolve the imbroglio since Nigeria and America have always enjoyed a good relationship for many years.
In the post, Obi noted that Nigeria’s deteriorating security landscape is a reflection of a failure of competent leadership and committed governance by the present administration.
‘The recent pronouncement by the US government declaring Nigeria a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ (CPC) and indicating possible military action should give every well-meaning Nigerian serious concern,” Obi said in the statement.
“There is no doubt that Nigeria is experiencing an unprecedented level of insecurity with attendant carnage and the most shocking loss of lives and property.
“According to Amnesty International, over 10,000 people have been killed in Nigeria since May 2023 and as I have repeatedly lamented, the unwarranted and unprovoked killing of Nigerians is most condemnable, and all efforts must be made to bring it to a stop. It is equally important to state that the terrible situation is significantly avoidable with competent leadership and governance.
“While the insecurity did not start with the present government, what is most unfortunate is the lack and absence of competence, commitment, prudent use of resources, patriotism and passion on the part of APC-led government/leaders to effectively govern, galvanise and lead Nigeria where no one is unwarrantedly oppressed and killed, a Nation where peace, truth and justice reign!
“As democracies, Nigeria and the US have long been strategic partners committed to regional peace and security. That relationship should not falter.
“The present situation calls for constructive diplomatic and any other plausible engagement by both nations aimed at addressing the prevailing and disturbing security concerns. Both countries must work in concert and expeditiously towards that purpose,” he wrote.
