Fresh concerns over the safety of children in Nigeria have emerged after former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi warned that ongoing kidnappings and attacks on schools are exposing young Nigerians to growing danger across several parts of the country.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Obi drew attention to the continued captivity of dozens of schoolchildren abducted in Borno State and Oyo State, noting that many of the victims had remained in the hands of their captors for about two weeks. He said the prolonged ordeal raises serious questions about the protection available to pupils and students in vulnerable communities.
The former Anambra State governor pointed to recent incidents that he said reflect a worsening security environment. Among them were attacks in Plateau State, where several people were reportedly killed and others injured, and in Kogi State, where armed assailants allegedly abducted more than 25 residents during a raid on a community.
Obi also referenced a deadly attack in Anambra State that claimed the lives of two police officers. He argued that the frequency of such incidents shows that criminal groups continue to target both civilians and security personnel, creating fear in affected communities.
Particular attention was given to the abduction of students and education workers in Oyo and Borno states. According to Obi, 46 people, including students, teachers and a school principal, were taken from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, while dozens of pupils from nursery, primary and secondary schools were reportedly kidnapped in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State. He described the attacks as a troubling threat to access to education and community stability.
Calling for urgent action, Obi said the protection of citizens, especially children, should remain a national priority. He urged authorities to intensify efforts to secure the release of those still in captivity and strengthen measures aimed at preventing further attacks on schools and communities, stressing that no child should have to pursue an education under the shadow of violence and abduction.
