Obi appeals to kidnappers to release abducted schoolchildren

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has called on kidnappers holding schoolchildren and their teachers to release them, urging compassion and humanity.

In a statement shared on his X platform on Wednesday, Obi expressed deep concern over reports and images showing the condition of the abducted children, describing the situation as heartbreaking and a reflection of the country’s worsening insecurity.

“I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the condition in which these abducted schoolchildren are,” he said, adding that the incident underscores the long-term consequences of poor governance and societal neglect.

Obi reiterated his long-held view that the failures of today’s leadership would have lasting effects on future generations, warning that the neglect of societal values and governance could continue to endanger children.

Addressing the abductors directly, he appealed to their conscience, stressing that the victims were innocent children whose lives and futures should not be jeopardised under any circumstance.

“No grievance or hardship can justify harming innocent children,” he said, urging the captors to show remorse and act with compassion.

The former Anambra State governor pleaded for the immediate and safe release of the victims, calling on the abductors to allow the children reunite with their families.

The appeal comes amid growing national concern over rising cases of school abductions and insecurity in parts of the country.