Obi hails rescue of abducted Oyo pupils, seeks stronger protection for schoolchildren

By Sunday Ameh

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has commended the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State, urging the Federal Government to strengthen security to protect schoolchildren across the country.

Obi, in a post on his X handle on Saturday, described the victims’ safe return as “worthy of thanksgiving,” while praising security personnel and others involved in the operation.

“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 rescue followed an announcement on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested during the operation, while several others were killed.

Onanuga also revealed that one of the notorious kingpins whose release had been demanded by the abductors is currently facing prosecution.

The pupils and teachers were abducted on May 15 after gunmen attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and LA Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The incident prompted the Oyo State Government to shut down schools in four local government areas as security agencies intensified efforts to secure the victims’ freedom.

While celebrating the successful rescue, Obi stressed that the recurring abduction of schoolchildren highlighted the urgent need for a stronger security architecture.

“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 the government,” he said.

He added that every Nigerian child deserved to pursue education in a safe environment free from the threat of violence and abduction.

“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,” Obi stated.

He also rejoiced with the rescued children, their families, their schools and Nigerians over what he described as a heartening development.