Opposition leader, Peter Obi has urged the Federal Government (FG) to implement policies that will promote economic opportunities and social justice in Nigeria, thereby putting an end to banditry, looting and arson.

Obi said this on Friday following the recent looting and arson that occurred at the Wuse main Market in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja during the week.

He said the recent incident is a clear manifestation of the frustration and desperation felt by many Nigerians who have been left behind by a system that prioritizes the interests of the few who are wealthy over the needs of the majority who are poor.

According to him, 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 government must urgently address these pressing issues with the seriousness and urgency they deserve,” said the former governor of Anambra state on his X handle.

“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, Obi said he would like to urge all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, 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, the Labour Party (LP) candidate during the 2023 Presidential election said Nigerians must set aside partisan differences and work towards the common solutions that will benefit the entire nation.

Obi added that he believes the future of Nigeria depends on the ability of the people to rise above adversity and build a society where every citizen can live with dignity, security and hope for a better tomorrow.

The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) confirmed in a press statement on Tuesday that protesters burnt down as many as ten shops at the popular Wuse market in Abuja.

FEMA spokesperson, Nkechi Isa, reported that the angry mob were protesting the shooting and killing of a man who was convicted by a mobile court sitting in the market premises.

“No fewer than 10 shops were razed down during a fire incident at the Wuse Market in Abuja. The fire has since been brought under control by a combined team of the Federal Fire Service, FCT Fire Service, and the Julius Berger Fire Department,” said Isa.

“The FCT Emergency Management Agency received a distress call on the 112 emergency toll-free number at 4.05 pm about a fire incident at Wuse Market.” (The Guardian)

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