‘Release These Children Now,’ Obi Tells Kidnappers After Weeks in Captivity
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has appealed to kidnappers holding schoolchildren and their teachers captive for more than two weeks to release them, describing their continued captivity as heartbreaking and unacceptable.
In a statement posted on his X account on Wednesday, Obi expressed deep concern over reports and images showing the condition of the abducted children, saying their ordeal reflects the worsening insecurity across the country.
“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 said.
The former Anambra State governor reiterated his long-held concerns about the consequences of poor governance and societal neglect, warning that the failure to address present challenges would continue to endanger future generations.
“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. 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 stated.
Obi also linked the issue to broader concerns about leadership and accountability, arguing that the burden of decisions taken today would ultimately fall on younger generations.
Addressing the kidnappers directly, Obi urged them to reflect on the humanity of the children in their custody.
“To those holding these children, I make a direct appeal to your conscience. Remember that these are innocent children — sons and daughters of people who have placed their hopes, dreams, and entire future in them,” he said.
He added that no circumstance could justify harming innocent children and called for compassion and remorse from those responsible for the abduction.
“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 said.
He concluded his appeal with a direct call for the immediate release of the victims.
“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.”
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