Peter Obi Links Nigeria’s Insecurity to Poverty and Unemployment After Katsina Mosque Attack

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has identified poverty and unemployment as the root causes of Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.

Obi made the statement on Wednesday via his official X (formerly Twitter) account while condemning the killing of at least 13 worshippers during a mosque attack in Katsina State.

According to reports, armed bandits stormed the Unguwan Mantau Community Mosque in Malumfashi Local Government Area, Katsina State, killing no fewer than 13 worshippers who had gathered for prayers.

The attack has once again highlighted the ongoing wave of violence in northern Nigeria, where communities continue to suffer from banditry and terrorism.

Describing the killings as “another unnecessary bloodletting,” Obi said it was particularly tragic that the victims were individuals who had gone to worship their Creator.

He expressed dismay that the tragedy came shortly after the security agencies recorded notable successes, including the arrest of high-profile terrorist elements that drew both local and international commendation.

Quoting from his statement, Obi wrote:

“So long as we fail to address crucial social challenges such as unemployment, and so long as we continue to operate a system that drives more people into multidimensional poverty, we will continue to experience these ugly consequences.”

The former Anambra State governor insisted that tackling insecurity requires addressing its root causes. He emphasized the urgent need for systemic reforms that create jobs, reduce poverty, and give Nigerians a sense of dignity and security in their daily lives.