Peter Obi: Nigeria Cannot Keep Burying Soldiers Without Supporting Their Families

Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has raised alarm over the rising number of security operatives killed in the line of duty, warning that Nigeria cannot continue to “bury men in uniform” without adequately supporting their families.

In a statement on Tuesday via his official X handle, Obi lamented the recurring deaths of soldiers, police officers, operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and local vigilante members across the country.

He urged the federal government to prioritise security as the foundation of governance by properly equipping and motivating personnel tasked with defending the nation.

“These recurring killings should serve as a wake-up call to leaders to better equip and motivate our security operatives. Security must now become the foundation of governance,” Obi said.

The former presidential candidate stressed that families of fallen heroes must not be abandoned, insisting that fair compensation and sustained support are a matter of justice, not charity.

“Our government must rise to the responsibility of ensuring that the wives, children, and parents of these fallen heroes are fairly compensated and supported. That is the least a grateful nation can provide,” he added.

Obi, who has consistently called for reforms in Nigeria’s security sector, said the sacrifices of fallen soldiers and officers should ignite a renewed determination to build a nation where “no life is considered valueless.”

He concluded with a tribute: “To every fallen hero, may your soul rest in perfect peace. Your sacrifice and patriotism will never be forgotten. And to the families left behind, you are not alone.”

The statement comes amid worsening insecurity in several parts of Nigeria, with frequent reports of ambushes, killings, and targeted attacks on security personnel.