Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called for stronger government action to protect displaced Nigerians and restore peace to communities affected by insecurity.
Obi made the call after visiting an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, where more than 500 displaced persons are reportedly taking refuge.
The visit came a day after Obi’s delegation was prevented from proceeding to Yelwata in Benue State, where he had planned to visit displaced Nigerians and families affected by recent attacks.
Reflecting on the development in a statement shared on X, the former Anambra State governor described the situation in Mangu as deeply disturbing.
He said more than 45,000 people have reportedly been displaced, while over 20 communities have been affected by terrorist attacks.
According to Obi, the displaced Nigerians want to return to their ancestral homes, rebuild their communities, farm their land and live in peace and dignity.
“As long as there is one displaced Nigerian, all Nigerians are displaced,” Obi said.
He urged the government to intensify efforts to secure affected communities and restore the confidence of residents.
Obi stressed that every Nigerian, regardless of location, ethnicity, religion or political affiliation, deserves protection of their life, safety, dignity and livelihood.
He also called on the authorities to ensure that displaced persons do not become “forgotten Nigerians,” urging government to create the conditions necessary for their safe and dignified return home while supporting them to rebuild their lives.
