Yemi Obafemi
Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for constructive diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and the United States in response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s alleged call for military action in Nigeria over reported killings of Christians.
In a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi emphasized that the current security situation requires both nations to work collaboratively to address Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
“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” the statement reads in part .
‘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 lamented the alarming rise in insecurity across the country, noting that over 10,000 people have reportedly been killed since May 2023, according to Amnesty International.
“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.
“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 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”, Obi wrote.
