Peter Obi calls for immediate release of abducted schoolchildren

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has made a passionate appeal for the immediate release of schoolchildren recently abducted, describing their condition as heartbreaking and a stark indicator of Nigeria's escalating insecurity.

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I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the condition in which these abducted school children are, as seen from their flagellated bodies. It is a painful reminder of the depth of insecurity in our land.

Obi, who posted on his verified X account, expressed profound shock and sorrow over images depicting the children with "flagellated bodies." He stated, "It is a painful reminder of the depth of insecurity in our land." The former governor of Anambra State lamented the enduring repercussions of poor governance and societal neglect, warning that current failures will inevitably impact future generations.

"I have always made it clear that the society we abuse today will take its revenge on our children tomorrow," Obi said, drawing a parallel to how current governance failures can yield devastating consequences long after the perpetrators are gone. He also connected the nation's growing debt burden to the welfare of future generations, arguing that loans taken today will burden children in the future.

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I have always made it clear that the society we abuse today will take its revenge on our children tomorrow. When I first began making that statement, some of these children were not even born. This is a classic example of how the abuse of governance and society today can produce devastating consequences long after the abusers are gone.

Directly addressing the abductors, Obi implored them to recognize the children's innocence and humanity. "Remember that these are innocent children – sons and daughters of people who have placed their hopes, dreams, and entire future in them," he urged. He stressed that no grievance or hardship could justify inflicting suffering on children, stating, "Whatever path has led to this moment, there is still room for remorse, for humanity, and for a change of heart."

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Remember that these are innocent children – sons and daughters of people who have placed their hopes, dreams, and entire future in them. In every one of them, you will find reflections of your own children, your own family, and your own humanity.

Concluding his appeal, Obi called for the "immediate and unconditional release of the victims," asking the abductors to "release these children immediately. Let them go. Return them safely to society to reunite with their families."

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No grievance, no hardship, no justification can ever outweigh the sanctity of a child’s life and innocence. Whatever path has led to this moment, there is still room for remorse, for humanity, and for a change of heart.