Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, has expressed grave concern over the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria, particularly the alarming trend of schoolchildren abductions, labeling it as unacceptable.
Obi criticized the pervasive insecurity that denies Nigerian children the opportunity to learn in a safe environment due to the activities of criminals, deeming it intolerable. He urged relevant authorities to implement effective measures to ensure that children can attend school, worship freely, and engage in business activities without fear.
Taking to his X handle (formerly Twitter), Obi lamented recent abductions, including the kidnapping of over 200 pupils, students, and a teacher in Kaduna State. He also expressed dismay over an attack on a mosque in the same state.
Expressing bewilderment at the insecurity plaguing Kaduna despite its significant military and security presence, Obi stressed the need for improved security measures to prevent future incidents.
Highlighting the broader impact of insecurity on education, Obi noted that over 18 million children are already out of school due to insecurity-related closures. He warned that further attacks on schools would exacerbate this crisis, driving more children onto the streets and worsening the nation’s security situation.
Obi appealed to both federal and state governments to explore all possible avenues for the safe release of abducted schoolchildren. He called on all Nigerians to unite in prayer and action to overcome the nation’s challenges, emphasizing the importance of ensuring every child’s safety and enabling them to pursue their dreams in a secure environment.
In his closing remarks, Obi reiterated the collective responsibility to build a New Nigeria where every child can thrive and fulfill their aspirations in a safe and secure nation.
