Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress’s presidential contender for 2027, has expressed joy that the kidnapped pupils were safely rescued, but he has urged the government to fortify the nation’s security framework in order to avoid such occurrences.
Obi praised security guards and others who helped secure the children’s release in a message posted on his verified account on Saturday.
“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.
Obi, however, stressed that the successful rescue should not overshadow the need to address the growing menace of kidnappings across the country.
“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 wrote.
The former Anambra State governor added that children should be able to pursue their education without fear of violence or 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,” he said.
The NDC chieftain also rejoiced with the rescued children, their families and the nation over the development.
“I rejoice with the children, their families, their schools, and all Nigerians on this heartening development,” he said, adding, “A new Nigeria is possible.”
His remarks came after the presidency confirmed that a concerted security operation had successfully recovered the kidnapped students and instructors.
Eight suspected kidnappers were apprehended, while many others were murdered during the operation, according to Bayo Onanuga, Special Advisor to the President on Information and Strategy, Chronicle NG reports.
Onanuga claims that despite the abductors’ demand for the release of one of their jailed commanders, the rescue was executed without discussions or compromises.
“In the course of the rescue operation, eight of the kidnappers were arrested and are now in DSS custody, while some of them were neutralised.
“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue, as one of the terrorists, a kingpin, whose release the kidnappers demanded, is being prosecuted for his atrocities. The security agencies will give a full account soon,” Onanuga said.
The students and teachers thanked Tinubu and the security forces after their rescue. One of the victims praised the president for his efforts to gain their liberation in a video that the president published.
“We are grateful, Mr President, sir. We understand your commitment to our safety, and we appreciate all you did for us. We could see it in your heart. Thank you very much,” the victim said.
