Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged those holding recently abducted schoolchildren captive to free them without delay, saying the children’s plight highlights the deepening security crisis in Nigeria.
In a statement shared on his verified X account on Wednesday, Obi said he was devastated by images of the victims, which showed evidence of physical abuse.
“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,” he said.
The former governor of Anambra State expressed concern over what he described as the consequences of poor leadership and societal neglect, arguing that the effects of today’s actions would be felt by future generations.
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“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,” Obi stated.
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He further connected the nation’s rising debt profile to the welfare of younger generations.
“It is on the same line that I argue that the loans our leaders take today will hurt our children in the future, as many of them will mature for repayment and consequences long after we are gone,” he added.
Obi also made a direct plea to the kidnappers, asking them to reflect on the innocence of the children and the pain being inflicted on their families.
“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.
According to him, no situation or grievance should result in the suffering of children.
“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 ended his appeal by calling for the immediate and unconditional 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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