Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the frequent disasters in Nigeria, calling on the government to take proactive steps to protect lives and property.
In a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, Obi reacted to the recent flood disaster in Yola, the Adamawa State capital, which claimed several lives and left many injured.
“My heart goes out to the families of the latest disaster who have lost loved ones, and to all those injured in the tragic flood in Yola,” he wrote.
Obi said managing disasters is a serious responsibility that must not be taken lightly. He stressed that the continuous loss of lives in preventable situations should worry leaders at all levels.
“This is another painful reminder of the urgent need for serious investment in disaster preparedness, environmental protection, and urban infrastructure across Nigeria,” he said.
The former governor criticized how disasters are often reduced to mere headlines, urging government authorities to move from reaction to prevention. He called for major investment in proper drainage systems and urban planning to avoid future tragedies.
Obi also praised the quick response by the Adamawa State Government, the Police Command, and other agencies involved in rescue efforts, but said Nigeria must go beyond emergency responses and start building long-term solutions to save lives.
His statement comes at a time when flooding, insecurity, and poor infrastructure continue to affect many parts of the country, especially during the rainy season.
