Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the continued abduction and captivity of Nigerian schoolchildren across the country.

PUNCH Online reports that at least 82 schoolchildren were abducted between May 13 and 15, 2026, during separate attacks in Borno and Oyo states.

Forty-two pupils were kidnapped on May 13 and 14 after armed groups attacked schools in Askira Uba and Chibok local government areas of Borno State, while another 40 schoolchildren were abducted on May 15 after gunmen invaded communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

During the Oyo attack, mathematics teacher Michael Oyedokun was beheaded by the gunmen, a motorcyclist was killed, and a security personnel died after running into improvised explosive devices planted by the abductors during early rescue attempts.

In a statement issued on Wednesday marking the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, Obi said his heart remained heavy despite congratulating Nigerian children on the occasion.

According to him, several abducted children have remained in captivity for prolonged periods while their images continue to circulate on social media.

“After congratulating Nigerian children as they celebrate their day today, my heart remains heavy and troubled, knowing that some Nigerian children have remained in captivity for years.

“It is a shame that days, weeks, months, and even years have passed while our children continue to languish in kidnappers’ dens,” Obi said

The former Anambra State governor said the inability to adequately protect children from criminal elements reflects poorly on the nation.

“A nation that cannot protect its children from criminals has little but shame to present to the global community,” he stated.

Obi added that no parent should experience the pain of being unable to protect their children, stressing that the country must not become comfortable with the continued suffering of abducted pupils and students.

“No parent can bear the shame of being unable to protect his or her children, yet here we are as a nation, moving on while our children continue to suffer in forests and captivity for years,” he added. (The PUNCH)

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