Peter Obi Condemns Attack on Onitsha Traders, Calls for Review of Security Agencies

The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the recent attack at the Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State, which resulted in the deaths of several traders, including a pregnant woman.

The incident reportedly involved a state-backed security outfit that opened fire on civilians in one of Nigeria’s busiest commercial centers.

In a post on his verified X handle on Wednesday, Obi described the incident as deeply troubling and called for a thorough investigation, a complete reorganisation, and strict accountability of all involved security operatives.

“It is very worrisome that state-backed outfits, created to improve security, are now worsening the plight of already terrorised citizens — and in some cases, acting even worse than the criminals they were meant to confront,” Obi wrote.

He recalled a previous incident in which members of the Udo Ga-Achi Security Outfit reportedly assaulted a youth corps member, stressing that these repeated abuses point to a pattern of lawlessness among certain security units.

“We must have security outfits that are well-scrutinised, properly trained, and strictly operate within the bounds of the law,” he added.

Obi extended his condolences to the families of the victims, praying for strength and comfort during their time of grief. “My deepest sympathy goes to the families of the victims. May they find strength and comfort, and may the departed rest in peace,” he said.

Calls for accountability have grown louder in the aftermath of the incident, as citizens and rights groups demand justice for the victims and an overhaul of local security operations in Anambra State.