![Peter Obi](http://media.assettype.com/lagoslocalnews%2F2023-03%2Fdbf60f48-9a8e-4eb9-b010-5dd4bb3e996a%2FPeter_Obi_Nigeria.jpg?w=480&auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=max)
Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has condemned the attack on soldiers in Abia State that resulted in the deaths of five military personnel.
In a statement on Friday via X, Obi expressed his anguish and outrage over the "dastardly act," describing it as a stark reminder of the escalating insecurity plaguing the nation. "I am appalled and saddened by the attack on our brave soldiers in Abia State yesterday, resulting in the death of five soldiers," Obi stated.
He extended his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and the people of Abia State, lamenting the nation's urgent need to protect its citizens and security personnel.
Obi demanded an immediate and thorough investigation to identify and punish the culprits responsible for the atrocity.
The former presidential candidate expressed solidarity with the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, and the people of the state, describing the attack as a reminder of the escalating violence in the nation. He called for swift and decisive action against continued brutality and bloodshed. "The continued brutality and bloodshed in our nation must be met with swift and decisive action, not empty words and hollow promises," Obi emphasized.
On Thursday, gunmen attacked a checkpoint at Obikabia junction in Aba, Abia State, killing five soldiers. The attack was reportedly carried out by suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to enforce a sit-at-home directive commemorating Biafra Day. The assailants also burned down security patrol vehicles during the attack.