‘No Child Should Ever Have To Endure Such Trauma’— Peter Obi Reacts To Rescue Of Oyo Pupils, Teachers

The presidential candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has welcomed the rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State, describing their freedom as a moment of relief while urging the Federal Government to intensify efforts to end the recurring wave of kidnappings, particularly those targeting schoolchildren.

Obi, in a statement issued on Saturday via his X handle following the successful rescue operation, expressed gratitude to the security personnel and others whose efforts led to the victims' safe return, saying the development was a source of joy for the nation.

"I am greatly relieved and delighted to learn of the safe rescue of the schoolchildren who were kidnapped. I sincerely thank all those whose tireless efforts made their freedom possible, especially the security personnel and everyone who worked behind the scenes,” he said.

The former Anambra State governor, however, cautioned that the successful operation should not overshadow the need for lasting solutions to Nigeria's worsening insecurity, stressing that children should never be exposed to the trauma of abduction.

“While we celebrate this happy outcome, we must remember that no child should ever have to endure such trauma. The recurring incidents of kidnapping, particularly of schoolchildren, underscore the urgent need to strengthen our security architecture and make the protection of lives and property the foremost responsibility of government,” Obi stated.

He further stressed that every Nigerian child deserves access to education in a secure environment free from fear and violence.

“Our children deserve to learn in an atmosphere of safety, not fear. We must continue to work towards building a Nigeria where every child can pursue education without the threat of violence or abduction,” he added.

Obi also rejoiced with the rescued children, their families, the affected schools and Nigerians, describing the victims' return as a heartening development for the country.

“I rejoice with the children, their families, their schools, and all Nigerians on this heartening development,” he said.