By Myke Uzendu, Abuja
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, Peter Obi, has appealed to kidnappers holding school children and their teachers captive for more than two weeks to release them in the interest of humanity.
In a statement posted on his X platform on Wednesday, Obi expressed deep concern over reports and images showing the condition of the abducted children, describing the situation as a painful reflection of the worsening insecurity in 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 stated.
The former Anambra State governor said the incident underscored his long-held warning that poor governance and societal neglect often produce consequences that future generations are forced to bear.
“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 said.
Obi also linked the current security challenges to broader issues of leadership and public policy, arguing that decisions taken by leaders today often have lasting consequences for 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.
Making a direct appeal to the abductors, Obi urged them to consider the innocence of the children and the anguish being experienced by their families.
“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,” he said.
The NDC presidential candidate stressed that no grievance or hardship could justify the continued detention 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,” Obi stated.
He appealed to the abductors to show mercy and release the victims without further 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,” he pleaded.
