Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has denounced the murderous attack on the Oko village in Anambra State, calling it a direct attack on education and a tragic representation of Nigeria’s increasing insecurity.
Peter Obi’s response came after an unidentified gunmen launched an attack around the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, in the Orumba North Local Government Area on Thursday night, which reportedly claimed the lives of at least four people, all believed to be students while injuring many others, and resulted in the kidnapping of some of the school’s staff.
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According to witnesses who spoke to newsmen, the attackers broke into the neighbourhood and started shooting without warning, instantly killing at least four individuals and wounding about seven more. The authorities did, however, confirm two deaths and attribute the attack to violence associated with cults.
Peter Obi said, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic attack on the learning environment of the Oko community in Anambra State, near the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, which reportedly claimed some lives and left several others injured.
“Also distressing are reports that some staff members of the academic institution were abducted during the same incident.
“This horrifying act is yet another painful reminder of the growing insecurity that continues to endanger lives across our nation,” Obi stated
The former governor of Anambra, lamented that educational institutions, once safe spaces for learning are now under siege.
”It is disheartening that educational institutions, places meant for learning, growth, and safety, are now targets of such violence,
“We must, as a matter of urgency, make the safety of our citizens a priority, especially the youth and educators who play a vital role in shaping our future.
“The government and security agencies must act swiftly to apprehend the perpetrators and secure the release of those kidnapped,” Peter Obi added.
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He expressed sympathies to the families of the deceased and showed support for the school’s employees and pupils.
He further called for a people-centered security overhaul, stating that, ”This tragedy underscores the urgent need for a more proactive and people-focused approach to security.
