O’tega Ogra, a presidential aide, has criticized Peter Obi, former Anambra governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, over his comments on the recent killings in Benue state.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Ogra described Obi’s reaction as politicization of a national tragedy, accusing him of hypocrisy and poor leadership during his time in office.

He wrote: “Without mincing words, it is regrettable that a former presidential candidate and ex-governor, PGO, whose own so-called ‘leadership’ record is permanently stained by one of Nigeria’s darkest chapters of police brutality under the disbanded Akwuzu SARS — a police unit that killed on sight in Anambra under the guise of Mr Obi’s infamous pronouncement.

“A man who presided over the systematic suppression and marginalization of minorities — be they political, religious, and/or ethnic — and who once aligned with those who sought to undermine Nigeria’s democracy during the dark military years.

“This same individual now seeks to lecture others on leadership and politicize a tragedy. Shame.”

Ogra said the tragedy in Benue was “deeply painful” and should not be used for political theatre.

He added that President Bola Tinubu had prioritized the situation, ordering full security mobilization and personally visiting the state on Wednesday.

“As we speak, the Chief of Army Staff has relocated to the affected zone on the directive of his commander-in-chief. Internal security apparatus and intelligence agencies have been fully activated and deployed.

“Mr President has given marching orders to his NATSEC apparatus, and he has also advised the Chief Executive of the State on what to do,” he added.

He noted that Tinubu had remained in “constant briefings and debriefings” with security chiefs, the Benue governor, and key stakeholders.

“As a former chief executive of a state, sir, you should know that security incidents differ in context, complexity, and causes. Each is, and must always be addressed with the urgency and discretion it deserves,” Ogra stated.

Ogra urged Obi to demonstrate better leadership in his conduct.

“In cases like this, it would be wise to be more circumspect, empathize with the victims of the tragedy, or, better still, heed the counsel of sages across history that, ‘you do not preach in white nor play politics with the tragedy and pain of others especially when your record is written in lies and blood.’ Please show leadership in your conduct, sir,” he concluded.