Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has welcomed the successful rescue of the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State, while urging the Federal Government to strengthen Nigeria’s security system to prevent future kidnappings.
In a statement shared on his verified X account on Saturday, Obi expressed relief over the safe return of the victims and commended the security personnel and others involved in the operation.
He said he was delighted by the rescue and appreciated the efforts of security agencies and all those who worked behind the scenes to secure the victims’ freedom.
Obi, however, stressed that while the rescue was a welcome development, it highlighted the urgent need to tackle the persistent wave of kidnappings, particularly those targeting schools.
According to him, no child should be subjected to the trauma of abduction, adding that protecting lives and property must remain the government’s highest priority.
He also emphasized that every Nigerian child deserves to receive an education in a safe environment without fear of violence or kidnapping.
The former Anambra State governor congratulated the rescued pupils, their families, their schools, and Nigerians, describing the development as heartening. He concluded his message with his familiar slogan, saying, “A new Nigeria is possible.”
Obi’s remarks came after the Presidency confirmed that all the abducted pupils and teachers were rescued alive during a coordinated security operation.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested while several others were killed during the operation. He added that the rescue was carried out without negotiating with the abductors or granting their demand for the release of one of their detained leaders, who is currently facing prosecution.
Following their rescue, the victims expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the security agencies. In a video released by the Presidency, one of the rescued pupils thanked the President for his commitment to securing their freedom.
President Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also praised the security agencies for the successful operation, commending their efforts in ensuring the safe return of the victims.
