Says abducted schoolchildren in Borno and Oyo still in captivity as fresh attacks claim lives in Plateau, Kogi and Anambra

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has sounded a stark warning over Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, decrying a fresh wave of killings, kidnappings and the continued captivity of abducted schoolchildren.

In a statement posted on his official social media page, Obi expressed deep concern that victims kidnapped in Borno and Oyo states remain in captivity two weeks after their abduction, despite ongoing security operations.

The former Anambra State governor said the persistent violence across the country reflects a troubling failure to adequately protect lives and property, stressing the need for urgent and decisive action.

Highlighting recent incidents, Obi pointed to deadly attacks in Plateau, Kogi and Anambra states. He cited reports that at least seven people were killed and 10 others injured in an assault on Gwon-Ajang village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

He also referenced the attack on Ayegunle-Igun community in Kogi State, where more than 25 people were reportedly abducted and one person killed. In Anambra, he noted the killing of two police officers, further underscoring the growing insecurity.

Obi recalled the abduction of dozens of pupils, students and teachers from schools in Oyo and Borno states on May 15, describing the continued captivity of the victims as deeply troubling.

“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,” he said.

He warned that the recurring attacks and kidnappings highlight the scale of Nigeria’s security challenges and called for immediate, focused efforts to restore safety and protect citizens across the country.