Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has appealed to the abductors of schoolchildren kidnapped in Oyo State to release them immediately, describing their ordeal as a tragic reflection of Nigeria’s worsening security situation.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Obi expressed shock and sadness over reports and images showing signs of abuse and flogging on the bodies of the kidnapped children while in captivity.
According to him, the incident highlights the consequences of years of poor governance and societal neglect, warning that the effects of leadership failures often fall on future generations.
“I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the condition in which these abducted school children are, as seen from their flagellated bodies. It is a painful reminder of the depth of insecurity in our land,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra governor recalled repeatedly warning that the actions and decisions of today’s leaders could have devastating consequences for younger Nigerians in the future.
“I have always made it clear that the society we abuse today will take its revenge on our children tomorrow. When I first began making that statement, some of these children were not even born,” he said.
Obi argued that the suffering of the abducted pupils demonstrates how governance failures can create long-term consequences that eventually affect innocent citizens.
He also reiterated concerns about rising public debt, maintaining that loans obtained by current administrations could become burdens for future generations.
“This is a classic example of how the abuse of governance and society today can produce devastating consequences long after the abusers are gone,” he said.
Addressing the kidnappers directly, Obi urged them to show compassion and release the children unharmed.
“Remember that these are innocent children — sons and daughters of people who have placed their hopes, dreams, and entire future in them. In every one of them, you will find reflections of your own children, your own family, and your own humanity,” he said.
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The former presidential candidate stressed that no grievance or hardship could justify the suffering of innocent children, urging the abductors to allow mercy and humanity to prevail.
“No grievance, no hardship, no justification can ever outweigh the sanctity of a child’s life and innocence. Whatever path has led to this moment, there is still room for remorse, for humanity, and for a change of heart,” Obi added.
He concluded by calling for the immediate and safe release of the children so they could reunite with their families.
“I therefore appeal to your sense of mercy: release these children immediately. Let them go. Return them safely to society to reunite with their families.”
