The 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity in Borno State, particularly in the Marte area, even as he commended Governor Babagana Zulum for his proactive leadership in tackling the crisis.
In a post on his official X handle on Tuesday, the former Anambra State governor described the security situation in the region as “very unsettling” and called for urgent national intervention.
“The security situation in Borno State is concerning and very unsettling,” Obi wrote. “What is happening in the Marte area of the state is not just a local emergency; it is a national alarm bell that must not be ignored.”
He praised Governor Zulum’s decision to personally relocate to the volatile area, describing it as a rare display of courage and leadership.
“Zulum, by choosing to spend the night in a town under threat, has once again demonstrated what leadership should look like; present, proactive, and people-centred,” he stated. “His courage is not for commendation alone; it is a challenge to those in authority to match words with decisive action.”
Obi warned that without swift and sincere efforts, the entire Marte Local Government Area could fall to terrorist forces. He said over 300 communities are currently exposed to attacks, and more than 20,000 people have already been displaced again.
“These were not just numbers,” he said. “They are families, children, and communities whose hopes are hanging by a thread.”
He reiterated Zulum’s earlier warning that insurgents were regrouping around Lake Chad and the Mandara Hills, and that Marte is on the verge of collapse.
“These are facts. And it is not enough to acknowledge them; we must respond with urgency and sincerity. We cannot afford to continue this culture of delayed response and distant governance,” Obi said.
He emphasized the need for immediate reinforcement of security forces and the protection of displaced persons.
“Our security forces need reinforcements, our displaced citizens need protection. We must show the will to act swiftly and consistently,” he said.
Obi concluded by reaffirming his long-held belief in leadership rooted in compassion, competence, and courage.
“I have always maintained that Nigeria works best when leadership is driven by compassion, competence and courage. And Zulum has shown all three,” he added.
“This is not about politics, but the people — and about protecting the soul of our nation.”
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