Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has strongly criticised First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and the Federal Government over what he described as a lack of empathy towards abducted schoolchildren and teachers still being held by kidnappers.
Atiku’s remarks followed the recent inauguration of the Tinubu Torchbearers (TTB), a pro-Tinubu support group, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where the First Lady also announced the donation of vehicles to APC women leaders in several states.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku questioned the appropriateness of political celebrations and public engagements while families of kidnapped pupils and teachers continue to endure uncertainty and anguish.
The former Vice President argued that a leader who is regarded as a mother figure should prioritize drawing national attention to the plight of abducted children rather than participating in political activities.
Referring to the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State on May 15, 2026, Atiku said Nigerians are still awaiting their safe return nearly three weeks after the incident, accusing the government of appearing more focused on politics than on addressing the concerns of affected families.
He stressed that leadership requires compassion and responsiveness during times of national distress, noting that many parents have spent weeks worrying about the fate of their children while public attention has been dominated by political events and ceremonies.
Atiku also criticised what he described as displays of political power and celebrations amid worsening insecurity and economic hardship, insisting that government officials must be mindful of the message such actions send to grieving citizens.
According to him, repeated kidnappings across the country should never become normal, warning that failure to respond with urgency could further undermine public confidence and embolden criminal groups.
The former presidential candidate called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward securing the release of the abducted pupils and teachers and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
He maintained that Nigerians are demanding action, results, and the safe return of those still in captivity rather than political activities and public displays.
Source: Statement by Atiku Abubakar through his media aide, Phrank Shaibu.
