Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has appealed to the abductors of schoolchildren in Oyo State to release the victims, describing their condition as heartbreaking and a reflection of Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.

In a statement on Wednesday, Obi said he was deeply disturbed by images showing the children with visible signs of abuse, noting that the situation underscored the urgent need to address insecurity across the country.

According to him, the plight of the children highlights the long-term consequences of poor governance and societal neglect.

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

Obi reiterated his longstanding position that societal failures and governance deficiencies often have far-reaching consequences for future generations.

He argued that the challenges facing the country today, including insecurity, are the result of years of neglect and poor leadership, warning that the impact of current decisions would continue to affect young Nigerians in the years ahead.

Addressing the abductors directly, the former Anambra State governor appealed to their conscience, urging them to consider the innocence of the children and the anguish being experienced by their families.

“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,” Obi stated.

He maintained that no grievance or hardship could justify harming innocent children and called on the kidnappers to show compassion by releasing the victims.

“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,” he said.

Obi concluded by urging the abductors to release the children immediately and allow them to reunite safely with their families.

His appeal comes amid growing public concern over the abduction of pupils and teachers in parts of Oyo State and renewed calls for stronger measures to tackle insecurity and protect schools across Nigeria.