Concerns Over Neglect: Fixation on 2027 Elections Overshadows Prioritization of Citizen and Child Security, Says Obi

Peter Obi, the Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, has voiced his concerns about the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria, pointing out that political leaders are prioritizing the 2027 elections over the welfare and safety of citizens.

n

On Tuesday, Obi took to social media to express his dismay at the prolonged captivity of schoolchildren abducted in Borno and Oyo states, noting that two weeks had passed since their kidnapping without their release.

n

According to Obi, the government's focus seems to be on publicizing the formation of a rescue team rather than securing the immediate release of the captives, who remain in the hands of their abductors.

n

Obi cited a string of recent attacks across the country as evidence of the worsening security situation, including the killing of at least seven people and the injury of 10 others by terrorists in Gwon-Ajang Village in Plateau State on Sunday.

n

In Kogi State, Obi referenced the attack on Ayegunle-Igun Community, where armed assailants kidnapped more than 25 people and killed one resident during a coordinated raid.

n

In Anambra State, two police officers lost their lives in a recent attack by armed criminals, Obi noted.

n

He also highlighted the abduction of 46 people, including 39 students, seven teachers, and a school principal, from three schools in Oyo State's Ahoro-Esinle Community near Ogbomoso.

n

Additionally, Obi recalled the kidnapping of between 48 and 51 pupils and students in Borno State's Mussa Community by suspected Boko Haram insurgents on May 15, 2026.

n

These victims, comprising nursery, primary, and secondary school pupils, have remained in captivity for two weeks, according to Obi.

n

Obi lamented that politicians are consumed by the next election, prioritizing their ambitions over the safety and well-being of children and citizens, as evidenced by the statement "Meanwhile, amid all these tragic developments, we politicians remain consumed by the next election, paying far more attention to political ambitions than to the safety and well-being of our children and fellow citizens).

n

Obi described the persistent attacks on schools and communities as a grave national concern, emphasizing that such incidents should not occur in a country not officially at war.

n

He called for urgent and decisive action to address insecurity and protect citizens, particularly children, from the growing threat posed by kidnappers, terrorists, and other criminal elements.