Obi added that leaders must ensure that Nigerian children are given opportunities to pursue their dreams and aspirations in a safe and secure nation.
By Jeffrey Agbo
Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has decried the worsening insecurity in Nigeria following the abduction of over 200 school children in Kaduna State.
Obi said it is unacceptable that Nigerian children will not be allowed to learn in a secure environment because of criminals.
The Labour Party leader charged relevant authorities to put no stone unturned and ensure that children go to school and learn in a conducive atmosphere and citizens worship and go about their businesses without hindrance.
Writing on X on Friday, the former Anambra State governor said “Just yesterday, I was lamenting the horrible spate of killings, terror attacks, and abductions in the country, while calling for more concerted efforts to combat the menace.
“We are again confronted with the ugly news of the abduction of over 200 pupils and students plus a teacher of local primary and junior secondary schools in Kuriga, Chikun Local Government area of Kaduna State.
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Obi said he was baffled that this happened in Kaduna State which has the highest number of military and other security institutions in the country.
“While every effort should be directed towards the safe release of the children, better security measures need to be implemented to avoid future occurrences,” he said.
Obi noted that “insecurity has continued to bear down on every sector of our national existence, its negative impact on education will be more devastating for the nation.
“We are already contending with an army of over 18 million out-of-school children, arising from the closure of schools due to insecurity. Further attacks on schools will only aggravate these numbers, drive more children into the streets, and add to the insecurity situation of the country.
“I once again appeal to the government, both state and federal, to explore all possible means to ensure the safe release of the abducted school children. I urge every Nigerian to continue to work and pray for the nation so that we can collectively conquer our challenges.”
Obi added that leaders must ensure that Nigerian children are given opportunities to pursue their dreams and aspirations in a safe and secure nation.