Peter Obi Welcomes Rescue of Oyo Schoolchildren

Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, Peter Obi, has welcomed the rescue of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State more than 50 days ago, saying their safe return is "worthy of thanksgiving" while urging the government to do more to stop kidnappings across Nigeria.

In a statement released on Saturday morning after the rescue was announced, Obi said he was relieved by the development and praised everyone involved in the operation.

"I am greatly relieved and delighted to learn of the safe rescue of the schoolchildren who were kidnapped," Obi said.

"I sincerely thank all those whose tireless efforts made their freedom possible, especially the security personnel and everyone who worked behind the scenes."

The Presidency announced Friday that all the abducted pupils and teachers had been rescued by security agencies after weeks in captivity.

President Bola Tinubu described the rescue as the end of a painful ordeal that lasted more than 50 days.

Authorities said eight suspected militants were arrested during the operation while others were killed, although they did not disclose where the hostages were found or provide further details of how the rescue was carried out.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also welcomed the rescue, thanking security agencies and everyone who contributed to bringing the victims home safely.

He said the government would continue supporting the children and their families as they recover from the traumatic experience.

Obi said the rescue should not distract from the country's worsening security challenges.

"While we celebrate this happy outcome, we must remember that no child should ever have to endure such trauma," he said.

"The recurring incidents of kidnapping, particularly of schoolchildren, underscore the urgent need to strengthen our security architecture and make the protection of lives and property the foremost responsibility of government."

He added: "Our children deserve to learn in an atmosphere of safety, not fear.

"We must continue to work towards building a Nigeria where every child can pursue education without the threat of violence or abduction."