Mr Peter Obi, who is the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has expressed deep concern and sorrow over the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria. He strongly emphasized that it is of utmost importance to ensure a safe and secure environment for Nigerian children to learn and grow in.
In light of the recent abduction of pupils and children in Kaduna State, the Labour Party chieftain has called for immediate action to be taken by the government and security agencies to put an end to this menace. Mr. Obi believes that the safety and well-being of children should be a top priority for any responsible government and that urgent measures need to be taken to address the deteriorating security situation in the country.
“We are again confronted with the ugly news of the abduction of over 200 pupils and students plus a teacher of a school in Kuriga, Chikun Local Government area of Kaduna State,” Obi said in a statement by Yunusa Tanko, on Saturday in Abuja.
Obi expressed his disappointment at the situation where Nigerian children are being denied the opportunity to learn in a secure environment due to the activities of criminals. He called on the relevant authorities to take urgent steps towards ensuring that children can go to school and learn in a safe and conducive atmosphere.
Obi emphasized that worshiping one’s creator and carrying out businesses without hindrances is essential for the growth and development of the nation. He urged more concerted efforts from all stakeholders in combatting the menace of insecurity challenges in the country.
Obi questioned the spate of security challenges in Kaduna state, which has the highest number of military and other security institutions in the country. He called for the implementation of better security measures to prevent future occurrences and ensure the safe release of the abducted children.
Obi highlighted the negative impact of insecurity on education in the country, stating that Nigeria is already grappling with a high number of out-of-school children due to the closure of schools caused by insecurity. He emphasized that further attacks on schools will only worsen the situation by increasing the number of children forced to roam the streets, thereby adding to the insecurity situation in the country.
Obi appealed to the government at all levels to explore all possible means to ensure the safe release of the abducted school children. He called on everyone to work together to make Nigeria a safer place for all.
“ I urge every Nigerian to continue to work and pray for the nation so that we can collectively conquer our challenges.
“We must ensure that every Nigerian child can pursue their dreams and aspirations in a safe and secure nation. This is our duty in the New Nigeria which is possible,” he said.
