Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, has condemned the deadly attack on the Oko community in Anambra State, describing it as a tragic symbol of Nigeria’s growing insecurity and a direct assault on education.
Obi’s reaction followed Thursday night’s attack by unidentified gunmen near the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, in Orumba North Local Government Area, which reportedly left at least four people dead, suspected to be students, injured several others, and led to the abduction of some staff members of the institution.
The assailants stormed the community and opened fire without provocation, killing at least four people on the spot and leaving around seven others wounded. However, the police confirmed two fatalities and linked the attack to cult-related violence.
In a statement posted on X, Obi expressed heartbreak over what he called “the tragic attack on the learning environment of the Oko community.”
“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 State lamented that educational institutions, once safe spaces for learning, are now under siege.
He wrote,” 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.”
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He extended condolences to bereaved families and expressed solidarity with the students and staff of the institution.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the deceased, and my thoughts are with the injured and the entire Oko community during this difficult time.
“I also stand in solidarity with the students and staff… who must now cope with the trauma of this violent disruption to their lives and academic pursuits.”
Calling for a people-centred security overhaul, Obi concluded, ”This tragedy underscores the urgent need for a more proactive and people-focused approach to security.
“May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may God grant comfort to their families and healing to all who have been affected.”
Meanwhile, the Anambra Police Command spokesman, Tochukwu Ikenga, stated on Friday that security forces had taken control of the area and rescued two victims, including a female survivor now receiving medical attention.
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