David Roberts, a former British diplomat, has criticized Peter Obi’s statement regarding the recent killing of Supersport TV crew members in Anambra State. Roberts argued that the incident should be classified as an act of criminality, rather than involving “non-state actors,” as suggested by Obi in his response to the attack.
While offering condolences to the victims’ families and media organizations, Roberts expressed concern that Obi’s comments could stigmatize Nigeria.
The attack occurred when unknown gunmen ambushed the Supersport TV crew while they were en route to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to cover the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match between Nigeria and Libya. Out of the 14 individuals in their vehicle, three, including a police officer, were killed. Two escaped, eight were rescued, and one remains unaccounted for.
In his statement, Peter Obi condemned the killings, attributing the violence to non-state actors who inflict pain on families. He expressed deep sorrow over the incident, particularly highlighting the tragic ambush on the Supersport TV crew along the Ihiala-Orlu Road.