Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the killing of traders — including a pregnant woman — allegedly by a state-backed security outfit in Onitsha, Anambra State.
Describing the incident as “deeply troubling,” Obi called for a comprehensive investigation, reorganisation, and strict accountability of state-backed security outfits.
In a statement titled “Curbing the Excesses of State Actors” posted on his verified X handle on Wednesday, Obi warned that some of the groups created to improve security have become a new source of fear and oppression for citizens.
“At a time when our nation is grappling with serious security challenges, with everyone looking for ways to mitigate them, even supporting for state policing, it is very worrisome that already state-backed outfits that were created to help with the situation and improve security, are instead worsening the plight of the already terrorised citizens and sometimes acting even worse than the criminals they were meant to confront,” Obi said.
“Rather than offering protection, they have become a new source of fear and oppression.
The tragic shooting and killing of traders, especially the killing of a pregnant woman in Onitsha, is deeply troubling and highlights the urgent need for thorough scrutiny, proper re-organisation, and strict accountability of these outfits.”
Obi recalled a previous incident involving Udo Ga-Achi Security Outfit, which he said “brutally assaulted a youth corper,” warning that repeated abuses suggest a breakdown in oversight.
“The security situation in Anambra appears to be deteriorating further. The activities of this group must be thoroughly investigated, and all those responsible for this heinous act must be brought to justice.
We must have outfits that are well-scrutinised and do not operate outside the law. Security agencies and community outfits should be carefully vetted, trained, and monitored to ensure professionalism and accountability in their activities.
Without proper oversight, what is meant to safeguard lives can easily become a threat to the very people it is supposed to protect,” he said.
Obi expressed condolences to the families of the victims, praying for strength and comfort as they mourn.
“My deepest sympathy goes to the families of the victims. May they find strength and comfort, and may the departed rest in peace.”
