Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has appealed to the abductors of schoolchildren in Oyo State to release their captives immediately, describing their ordeal as a painful reflection of Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
In a statement shared on his X account, Obi said he was deeply shocked and heartbroken by reports and images showing the condition of the abducted children, particularly the visible injuries on their bodies.
According to him, the incident underscores the long-term consequences of poor governance and societal neglect, warning that today’s failures often become tomorrow’s tragedies.
“I have always made it clear that the society we abuse today will take its revenge on our children tomorrow,” Obi said, adding that the suffering of innocent children serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of insecurity and leadership failures.
The former Anambra State governor also drew a parallel between insecurity and the growing debt burden facing the country, arguing that decisions made by leaders today could have devastating consequences for future generations.
Addressing the abductors directly, Obi urged them to reflect on the innocence of the children and the anguish being endured by their families.
“These are innocent children – sons and daughters of people who have placed their hopes, dreams, and entire future in them. In every one of them, you will find reflections of your own children, your own family, and your own humanity,” he stated.
Obi maintained that no grievance, hardship or circumstance could justify harming children, stressing that the sanctity of a child’s life must remain inviolable.
He appealed to the abductors’ conscience, urging them to show mercy and compassion by releasing the children without delay.
“I therefore appeal to your sense of mercy: release these children immediately. Let them go. Return them safely to society to reunite with their families,” Obi said.
The appeal comes amid growing concern over the safety of schoolchildren and the resurgence of abductions targeting students in parts of the country.
