In the Obikabia junction area, Ogbor Hill, Nigeria, a tragic event occurred. Soldiers stationed at a military checkpoint have been killed in an attack by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). This violence took place as IPOB attempted to enforce a sit-in order on Thursday, May 30, 2024.
Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, reacted strongly to this event through a statement posted on her personal account. She demanded clear answers from military and government authorities regarding the surge in violence across the country. She questioned the failure of security forces to arrest, investigate, prosecute and punish criminals, calling on President Bola Tinubu to fully assume his national security responsibilities.
In his statement, Oby Ezekwesili highlighted the vital role of the military in the country and expressed condolences to the families of the soldiers killed in Abia. She called for greater public awareness on the alarming state of insecurity prevailing across the country. She also questioned the reasons why insecurity persists despite the constitutional and legal framework in place to ensure the security of citizens.
The political leader stressed that the population should not be left vulnerable to criminals and that the latter should be apprehended and punished in accordance with the law. She denounced the lack of effective deterrence against criminal groups, who increasingly feel confident in sowing terror among citizens, including security forces.
This tragedy highlights the urgent need to strengthen security and justice mechanisms in Nigeria. It is imperative that authorities take concrete measures to protect citizens and ensure justice for victims of violence. In these difficult times, unity and solidarity are more necessary than ever to overcome the security challenges facing the country.