Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has voiced deep concern over Nigeria's deteriorating security situation, accusing political leaders of prioritizing the 2027 elections over the safety and welfare of citizens. In a statement posted on his social media handle on Tuesday, Obi decried the continued captivity of schoolchildren abducted in Borno and Oyo states, noting that two weeks after their kidnapping, the victims remain unfreed.
According to Obi, while children languish in captors' hands, government attention seems focused on publicizing the formation of rescue teams rather than securing their immediate release. The former Anambra State governor cited a series of recent attacks as evidence of the worsening security landscape.
Recent Attacks Highlighted
Obi recalled the killing of at least seven people and injury of ten others by terrorists in Gwon-Ajang village, Foron District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State on Sunday. He also referenced the attack on Ayegunle-Igun Community in Kaba-Bunu Local Government Area, Kogi State, where armed assailants kidnapped over 25 people and killed one resident during a coordinated raid.
In Anambra State, two police officers lost their lives in a recent attack by armed criminals. The former presidential candidate further highlighted the abduction of 46 individuals, including 39 students, seven teachers, and a school principal, from three schools in Ahoro-Esinle Community, Oriire Local Government Area, near Ogbomoso, Oyo State.
Borno Kidnappings
Obi also recalled the kidnapping of between 48 and 51 pupils and students in Mussa Community, Askira-Uba Local Government Area, Borno State by suspected Boko Haram insurgents on May 15, 2026. According to him, the victims—comprising nursery, primary, and secondary school pupils—have remained in captivity for two weeks.
“Meanwhile, amid all these tragic developments, we politicians remain consumed by the next election, paying far more attention to political ambitions than to the safety and well-being of our children and fellow citizens,” Obi stated. He described the persistent attacks on schools and communities as a grave national concern, stressing that such incidents should not occur in a country not officially at war.
Obi's remarks come as the nation grapples with escalating insecurity, with many citizens questioning the government's commitment to protecting lives and property.
