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Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has sounded the alarm over the escalating insecurity in Borno State, describing the situation as a “national emergency” requiring immediate and coordinated federal response.

In a statement released through the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), Obi expressed deep concern about the deteriorating security landscape in the Marte area of Borno State, where insurgents are reportedly regrouping and threatening to overrun communities. He warned that the situation poses a serious threat not only to the local populace but to national stability.

Writing on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Obi praised Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for his hands-on leadership and courage in relocating to the volatile region amid mounting threats. “Governor Babagana Zulum, by choosing to spend the night in a town under threat, has once again demonstrated what leadership should look like: present, proactive, and people-centred,” Obi wrote.

He emphasized that Zulum’s actions should not only be applauded but also serve as a wake-up call for federal authorities to match their rhetoric with concrete actions. “We cannot claim to be building a secure and united Nigeria when one of our own, a sitting governor, is left pleading for federal support to prevent an entire local government from falling into the hands of terrorists,” Obi stated.

According to the former presidential candidate, more than 300 communities are at risk, with over 20,000 residents already displaced due to the renewed wave of insurgency. Obi stressed that these are not just statistics, but real people — families and children — whose lives are hanging in the balance.

Highlighting specific warnings from Governor Zulum, Obi noted the resurgence of insurgent activity around Lake Chad and the Mandara Hills, coupled with the imminent collapse of Marte Local Government Area. He called these developments “facts” that demand urgent and sincere action from the federal government.

“Our security forces need reinforcements. Our displaced citizens need protection, not promises. And our leaders, particularly at the federal level, must show the will to act swiftly and consistently,” he said.

Obi reiterated his long-standing belief that effective governance in Nigeria must be driven by “compassion, competence, and courage,” and urged the federal government to emulate the leadership qualities displayed by Governor Zulum.

“This is not about politics. It is about people. It is about protecting the soul of our nation. Let us act quickly, decisively, and justly,” he concluded, reaffirming his vision that “A new Nigeria is POssible.”

The statement was signed by Ibrahim Umar, spokesman of the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR).