Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate has raised alarm over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, accusing political leaders of prioritising the 2027 elections over the safety and welfare of citizens.
In a statement shared on his social media handle on Tuesday, Obi lamented that abducted schoolchildren in Borno and Oyo states have remained in captivity for two weeks without being rescued, describing the situation as deeply disturbing.
He criticised what he called a misplaced national focus, arguing that while victims remain in the hands of their abductors, political attention appears to be shifting toward election preparations rather than urgent rescue efforts.
Obi also cited a series of recent violent incidents across the country as evidence of escalating insecurity.
He recalled the killing of at least seven persons and injuries sustained by 10 others during a terrorist attack on Gwon-Ajang Village in Foron District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
He further referenced the attack on Ayegunle-Igun community in Kogi state, where armed assailants reportedly killed one person and kidnapped more than 25 others.
In Anambra State, he noted that two police officers were killed in an attack by armed criminals, while in Oyo State, about 46 persons — including 39 students, seven teachers, and a school principal — were abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.
Obi also highlighted the abduction of between 48 and 51 pupils and students in Mussa community, Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, allegedly by suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
According to him, the victims, mostly schoolchildren, have remained in captivity for two weeks.
“Meanwhile, amid all these tragic developments, we politicians remain consumed by the next election, paying far more attention to political ambitions than to the safety and well-being of our children and fellow citizens,” he said.
He described the continued attacks on schools and communities as unacceptable, stressing that such incidents should not occur in a country not officially at war.
Obi called for urgent and decisive action from government and security agencies to secure the release of abducted victims and strengthen protection for citizens, especially children, across the country.
