Nigeria’s former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the continued abduction of schoolchildren across the country, describing the situation as a national tragedy and a sign of collapsing school safety.
In a strongly worded statement marking the celebration of Children’s Day, Obi said his thoughts remain heavy despite the occasion meant to honour Nigerian children.
He lamented that several schoolchildren have spent years in captivity, while their images continue to circulate on social media, reflecting unresolved insecurity.
Rising insecurity in schools and prolonged captivity crisis
Obi condemned the repeated attacks on schools and the inability of authorities to secure the safety of learners, warning that the trend has created fear among parents, teachers, and students nationwide.
He stressed that education cannot thrive in an environment where children are no longer safe within school premises.
According to him, the prolonged captivity of abducted children represents a national shame and a painful reminder of the country’s security challenges.
He noted that many families continue to live in anguish, waiting for news of their missing children without closure.
He further argued that a country unable to protect its children from criminal groups risks losing global respect and moral credibility.
He described the situation as unacceptable and urged urgent action to restore safety in schools.
Obi added that while Children’s Day should be a moment of joy and reflection, it has instead become a reminder of unfinished responsibilities toward protecting the nation’s youngest citizens.
