“Release Schoolchildren for Humanity’s Sake” — Peter Obi Appeals to Bandits

Former presidential candidate and Labour Party figure, Peter Obi, has called for the immediate release of schoolchildren recently abducted by armed gunmen, describing their situation as deeply distressing and a reflection of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.

Obi made the appeal in a statement shared on his verified social media page on Wednesday after disturbing images of the abducted children surfaced online.

He expressed shock over reports suggesting the victims had been physically abused, describing the condition of the children as heartbreaking.

“I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the condition in which these abducted school children are, as seen from their flagellated bodies,” he said, adding that the incident reflects the depth of insecurity in the country.

Obi linked the tragedy to broader governance challenges, arguing that failures in leadership and society often produce consequences that extend to future generations.

“I have always made it clear that the society we abuse today will take its revenge on our children tomorrow,” he stated.

He further warned that the long-term effects of poor governance and policy decisions continue to shape the lives of young Nigerians.

According to him, the situation also mirrors concerns about national debt, which he said could burden future generations long after current leaders are gone.

Obi directly appealed to the abductors, urging them to show mercy and consider the humanity of the victims.

He reminded them that the children are innocent and represent the hopes and future of their families and communities.

“No grievance, no hardship, no justification can ever outweigh the sanctity of a child’s life and innocence,” he said.

Concluding his message, Obi called for immediate action:

“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 appeal adds to growing public concern over rising cases of school kidnappings and insecurity across parts of the country.