Despite a decline in terrorism-related deaths worldwide, Nigeria has been ranked fourth in the latest Global Terrorism Index, while Pakistan is ranked first, and Burkina Faso and Niger are ranked second and third respectively.
Other African countries in the top ten include Mali, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Reacting to the development, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, expressed concern, blaming leadership failure in Nigeria.
“The latest Global Terrorism Index report ranks Nigeria among the most terrorised nations in the world, showing one of the highest increases in deaths from terrorism. This is a painful indictment of failed leadership,” Obi said.
He noted that while many countries are seeing a decline in terrorism, Nigeria is moving in the opposite direction.
Obi described the trend as a direct result of misplaced priorities, weak governance, corruption, a lack of rule of law, and the persistent neglect of security, which he called the government’s most fundamental duty.
“From the insurgency of Boko Haram to the growing threat posed by the Islamic State West Africa Province, the crisis of kidnapping, and unchecked violence in our rural communities by heavily armed bandits, Nigerians are dying daily while those in power continue to feast,” he lamented.
“What is the purpose of government if it cannot protect lives? Why are we normalising tragedy while other nations make progress?,” Obi asked, stressing that this is not the Nigeria that should be accepted by its citizens.
He emphasised that Nigeria cannot continue down this path, advising that it is time to move from excuses to action and from failure to measurable progress.
He further stated that a safe and secure Nigeria is not too much to ask, adding that it is the right of every citizen and must be delivered.
Top 10 Countries in the Global Terrorism Index
1. Pakistan.
2. Burkina Faso.
3. Niger.
4. Nigeria.
5. Mali.
6. Syria.
7. Somalia.
8. Democratic Republic of the Congo.
9. Colombia.
10. Israel.
