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

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress in the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has welcomed the rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State, describing their safe return as a moment of thanksgiving while urging the government to strengthen the country’s security architecture.

In a statement shared on his X account on Saturday, Obi expressed relief over the successful operation and commended the security personnel and others who worked to secure the victims’ release.

“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 wrote.

While celebrating the rescue, Obi said no child should have to experience the trauma of abduction, stressing that the repeated kidnapping of schoolchildren highlighted the urgent need to improve security across the country.

“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,” he said.

According to Obi, every Nigerian child deserves to learn in a safe 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.

The former Anambra State governor also rejoiced with the rescued pupils, their families, schools and Nigerians over the successful operation.

Obi’s reaction followed the Presidency’s confirmation that the abducted pupils and teachers were rescued alive during a coordinated operation involving security agencies.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said eight suspected kidnappers were arrested while several others were killed during the operation.

According to Onanuga, the victims were rescued without negotiations or concessions to the abductors, despite their demand for the release of one of their detained kingpins.

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