Peter Obi, the 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and former Governor of Anambra State, has paid solemn tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States. He called for a world in which peace, compassion, justice, and respect for human life prevail over hatred and terror.
Obi made the statement on Saturday in a post on X after attending a prayer and remembrance service in New York to mark the 25th anniversary of the attacks. Nearly 3,000 people lost their lives when hijacked passenger planes crashed into the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon in Virginia, and a field in Pennsylvania.
“Earlier today, while in New York, I joined in prayers and a service of remembrance to honour the innocent lives lost on September 11, 2001,” Obi said. “Twenty-five years later, the pain of that tragic day remains deeply felt by the families who lost loved ones and by a nation that has continued to carry their memory.”
He specifically honoured the courage of first responders and ordinary citizens. “We also honour the extraordinary courage of the firefighters, police officers, first responders, and ordinary citizens who ran towards danger to save others. Their selflessness remains a powerful reminder of the courage and goodness that humanity is capable of, even in the face of unimaginable tragedy.”
Reflecting on the broader lessons of the tragedy, Obi emphasised the sanctity of human life beyond all divisions. “Beyond nationality, race, religion, or political differences, there is a fundamental truth that binds us all: human life is sacred, and our shared humanity must unite us, especially in our darkest moments.”
Obi extended his sympathy, prayers, and solidarity to the families still mourning their loved ones and to the American people. He prayed that the souls of those who died would continue to rest in peace and urged the global community to pursue lasting values of peace and justice.
“May their memory inspire us to work towards a world where peace, compassion, justice, and respect for human life prevail over hatred and terror,” he stated. “We remember. We honour. We will never forget.”