Abuja Market Looting Shows Frustration Of Nigerians Who Have Been Left Behind By Their Government – Peter Obi

 

 

 

 

 

 

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has said the recent looting and arson that occurred at the Wuse Main Market in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, was a clear manifestation of frustration and depression faced by Nigerians. 

 

Obi said the depression is caused by "a government that prioritises the interests of the few over the needs of the many." 

 

 

It was recently reported that suspected hoodlums and touts attacked and set ablaze some parts of the popular Wuse market in Abuja following the shooting and killing of a suspect. 

 

 

The incident reportedly occurred when the suspect being tried in the market mobile court attempted to escape and was shot and killed by a uniformed officer.

 

 

Reacting to the incident, Obi in a series of posts on X platform on Friday said that while acts of violence and destruction are never justified, they are often symptomatic of deeper, social and economic grievances that must be addressed through meaningful dialogue and purposeful action.

 

 

 

 

The former governor of Anambra State said, “The recent looting and arson that occurred at Wuse main Market in Abuja during the week are a clear manifestation of the frustration and desperation felt by many Nigerians who have been left behind by a system that prioritises the interests of the few over the needs of the many. 

 

“While acts of violence and destruction are never justified, they are often symptomatic of deeper social and economic grievances that must be addressed through meaningful dialogue and purposeful action.”

 

Obi said that “The government must urgently address these pressing issues with the seriousness and urgency they deserve. This includes implementing policies that promote economic opportunity and social justice, strengthening law enforcement and security agencies to combat crime effectively, and fostering a culture of accountability and transparency in governance. 

 

“Furthermore, I like to urge all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, religious leaders, and the international community, to come together in solidarity to support efforts aimed at addressing the root causes of these challenges and building a more just and equitable society for all Nigerians. 

 

“In times of crisis such as now, we must set aside partisan differences and work towards common solutions that benefit the entire nation.

 

 

“The future of Nigeria depends on our ability to rise above adversity and build a society where every citizen can live with dignity, security, and hope for a better tomorrow.”