Former Anambra State Governor and Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the growing trend of school abductions and escalating insecurity across Nigeria, warning citizens against becoming indifferent to these crises.
In a statement, Obi expressed deep concern over recent incidents, including the abduction of schoolchildren in Borno and Oyo states, describing them as a heartbreaking reflection of a failing security apparatus and governance challenges that threaten the nation’s future. He highlighted the contrast between the national and global outrage following the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls abduction and the current muted response to repeated incidents.
“One school abduction was enough to unite Nigerians, attract international attention, and place enormous pressure on the government through the #BringBackOurGirls campaign,” Obi stated. “The Nigerian youth must not become indifferent. We must all refuse to normalise failure. Young Nigerians – Take back your country!”
Obi noted the alarming rise in school abductions, pointing out that approximately ten such incidents occurred during the eight-year administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, with a similar or higher number recorded in the early years of the current administration. He attributed the persistence of these crimes to systemic governance failures that have turned children into “pawns in a ransom economy.”
“There is nothing more heartbreaking for a nation than an inability to protect its children,” Obi said. “The recent attacks and kidnappings of students mark a grave crisis that threatens the future of the nation. Beyond the immediate terror, they infringe on the basic right to education and create an environment of fear that drives children, especially girls, out of school.”
He appealed directly to the conscience of those involved in such acts, urging the immediate and unconditional release of abducted children. Obi emphasised that the abuse of governance and society today will have devastating long-term consequences for future generations.
Obi called on all Nigerians, particularly the youth, to reject the normalisation of insecurity and demand accountable leadership that prioritises the safety and education of citizens. He stressed the need for collective action to restore security, rebuild trust in institutions, and create a Nigeria where children can learn without fear.