Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, Peter Obi, has appealed to kidnappers holding schoolchildren and their teachers captive for more than two weeks to release them in the interest of humanity.
In a statement posted on his X account on Wednesday, Obi expressed deep concern over the plight of the victims, describing images of the children as heartbreaking.
“I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the condition in which these abducted schoolchildren are, as seen from their flagellated bodies. It is a painful reminder of the depth of insecurity in our land,” he said.
Obi reiterated his long-held position that societal neglect and poor governance often have far-reaching consequences for 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.
Drawing a parallel with the nation’s growing debt profile, Obi argued that the burden of present-day decisions would ultimately fall on future 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.
The former Anambra State governor made a direct appeal to the abductors, urging them to reflect on the innocence of the children and the pain their families are enduring.
“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. In every one of them, you will find reflections of your own children, your own family and your own humanity,” Obi said.
He stressed that no grievance or hardship could justify the continued captivity of innocent 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,” he said.
Obi concluded with an appeal for mercy, calling on the kidnappers to release the victims without delay.
“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.”
The schoolchildren and their teachers have reportedly remained in captivity for more than two weeks, raising concerns over worsening insecurity and the safety of educational institutions across the country.