Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has appealed to the abductors of recently kidnapped schoolchildren to release them without delay, describing their ordeal as a painful reflection of Nigeria’s worsening security situation.
In a statement shared on his verified X account on Wednesday, Obi said he was deeply saddened by images showing the children with visible signs of physical abuse while in captivity.
According to him, the condition of the children highlights the urgent need to address insecurity and protect vulnerable citizens across the country.
“I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the condition in which these abducted schoolchildren are, as seen from their injured bodies. It is a painful reminder of the depth of insecurity in our land,” he said.
Obi noted that the incident reflects the consequences of years of poor governance and neglect, warning that the effects of today's failures often fall on future generations.
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He reiterated his long-held belief that societal neglect eventually creates problems that affect innocent people, especially children.
The former governor also linked the issue to broader concerns about the country's future, including the growing debt burden that future generations may have to bear.
Making a direct appeal to the kidnappers, Obi urged them to consider the innocence of the children and the pain being experienced by their families.
“These are innocent children whose parents have placed their hopes, dreams and future in them. In each of them, you can see your own children, your own family and your own humanity,” he said.
He stressed that no grievance or hardship could justify the suffering inflicted on children and called on the abductors to show compassion.
Obi urged them to release the victims immediately and allow them return safely to their families and communities.
He concluded by calling for the immediate and unconditional freedom of all abducted children, saying they deserve the opportunity to continue their education and live without fear.
