By Daily Review Online
The Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 presidential election, Mr. Peter Obi, has appealed to the kidnappers holding schoolchildren and their teachers captive for more than two weeks to release them in the interest of humanity and compassion.
In a message posted on his X account on Wednesday, Obi expressed deep concern over reports and images showing the condition of the abducted children.
“I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the condition in which these abducted schoolchildren are being held, as seen from their battered bodies. It is a painful reminder of the depth of insecurity in our land,” he said.
Obi recalled his long-standing warning about the consequences of poor governance and societal neglect.
“I have always maintained 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 clear example of how the abuse of governance and society today can produce devastating consequences long after the perpetrators are gone,” he stated.
He further noted that the same principle applies to the growing debt burden being accumulated by current leaders.
“It is on the same basis that I argue that the loans our leaders take today will hurt our children in the future, as many of them will mature for repayment long after we are gone,” he added.
Addressing the abductors directly, Obi appealed to their conscience and sense of compassion.
“To those holding these children, I make a direct appeal to your conscience. These are innocent children—sons and daughters of parents who have placed their hopes, dreams, and future in them. In every one of them, you should see reflections of your own children, your own family, and your own humanity.
“No grievance, hardship, or 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, humanity, and a change of heart.
“I therefore appeal to your sense of mercy: release these children immediately. Let them go. Return them safely to their families and society.”