…Calls for Scrutiny of State-Backed Security Outfits
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed outrage over the recent killing of traders, including a pregnant woman, by a state-backed security outfit in Onitsha, Anambra State.
In a statement shared via his X handle on Tuesday, Obi said the development was deeply troubling, especially at a time when Nigeria is grappling with worsening insecurity and debates around the adoption of state policing.
“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 lamented.
According to him, the tragic shooting and killing of traders in Onitsha “highlights the urgent need for thorough scrutiny, proper reorganisation, and strict accountability of these outfits.”
Obi recalled a similar incident involving the Udo Ga-Achi Security Outfit in Anambra, which he said had previously brutalised a youth corps member.
“Last time, it was a different group Udo Ga-Achi Security Outfit in Anambra, that brutally assaulted a youth corper. This time, another outfit is shooting and killing innocent citizens. 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,” he declared.
The former Anambra governor insisted that community security outfits and agencies must be properly vetted, trained, and monitored to prevent abuse.
“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 warned.
Obi also commiserated with the families of the victims, praying for strength and comfort.
“My deepest sympathy goes to the families of the victims. May they find strength and comfort and may the departed rest in peace,” he added.
