Former Labour Party presidential candidate and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, Peter Obi, has made an emotional appeal to the abductors of schoolchildren and teachers kidnapped in Oyo State, urging them to release the victims immediately.
Reacting to the disturbing situation, Obi described the continued captivity of the children and their teachers as a painful reflection of Nigeria’s worsening security challenges, saying he was deeply saddened by reports and images showing the condition of some of the victims.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Obi expressed concern over the growing wave of kidnappings affecting schools and communities across the country, warning that insecurity continues to threaten the future of innocent children.
The former Anambra State governor said the plight of the abducted pupils should serve as a wake-up call for leaders at all levels, stressing that the consequences of governance failures often fall hardest on future generations.
Addressing the kidnappers directly, Obi urged them to listen to their conscience and remember that the victims are innocent children with dreams, aspirations and families anxiously waiting for their return.
He appealed to the abductors to show mercy and humanity by allowing the children and teachers to reunite with their loved ones.
According to Obi, no grievance, hardship or circumstance should justify inflicting suffering on innocent children, insisting that every child deserves protection, care and the opportunity to pursue a better future.
His appeal comes amid growing national concern over the abduction of dozens of pupils and teachers in Oyo State, a development that has sparked protests, public outrage and renewed calls for stronger security measures across the country.
Many Nigerians have continued to demand urgent action from authorities to secure the safe release of the victims and prevent further attacks on schools.
As families endure days of uncertainty and fear, Obi’s message adds to the growing voices calling for compassion, justice and immediate action to bring the children home safely.
Source: Statement by Peter Obi
