Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, has strongly condemned the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State. The former governor of Anambra State appealed for the release of the captives in the name of humanity, expressing deep concern over the worsening security situation in the country.
Details of the Abduction
Bandits kidnapped schoolchildren and teachers in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15. The incident has drawn national attention, prompting a response from the federal government. President Bola Tinubu dispatched a high-powered delegation to the affected communities and assured the public that every effort is being made to secure the release of the victims.
Obi's Statement
In a statement released on Wednesday, June 3, Obi described the situation as painful and decried the state of insecurity in Nigeria. He shared a viral video showing the abductees and begged for their release. His statement read in part: "I have always made it clear that the society we abuse today will take its revenge on our children tomorrow. When I first began making that statement, some of these children were not even born. This is a classic example of how the abuse of governance and society today can produce devastating consequences long after the abusers are gone."
Public Reactions
Obi's statement has generated mixed reactions from Nigerians. Some criticized him for defecting to the NDC, while others accused him of hypocrisy and selective concern. Abdull-Aziz Na'ibi Abubakar faulted Obi, saying: "If you really cared, you would not have attempted to divide the opposition votes. No sane Nigerian takes you seriously." Nuhu Sada commented on leadership: "The measure of leadership is not in speeches but in the safety and well-being of the people. Nigerians deserve visible progress, not endless explanations." Patrick Omoyeni Gcfr accused Obi of hypocrisy, referencing his interactions with IPOB. Akikanju accused him of ignoring killings in the southeast, his own region.
Buratai's Comments
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (Rtd), also commented on the abduction. In an interview with TVC, he expressed confidence that security operatives can locate the abducted pupils, noting their ability to track influencers on social media. He called for more personnel to be recruited into the security forces.
This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, with citizens increasingly demanding effective action from the government to protect lives and property.
