THIS DAWN — The Labour Party (LP) Presidential Candidate in the 2023 elections and former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, has welcomed the rescue of 38 abducted worshippers from the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke-Isegun, Eruku, in Kwara State.
Peter Obi also expressed satisfaction over the escape of about 50 schoolchildren kidnapped from a Catholic private school in Niger State.
Obi described the news as “refreshing,” commending security agencies for the efforts that led to the breakthrough.
His comments came through a formal reaction he issued on Monday via his X, formerly Twitter, handle.
“Encouraging developments”
Obi said the successful rescue and escape represent “encouraging developments” in a country still battling recurring waves of armed attacks, mass abductions, and widespread insecurity.
He noted that the families of the rescued victims must have endured “deep anguish” throughout the ordeal.
He stressed that their relief should motivate authorities to intensify ongoing operations.
He said: “It is gratifying to receive some positive news on the rescue of the 38 abducted victims from the Eruku Church attack in Kwara State, as well as the escape of about 50 students from the Catholic Private School in Niger State.
“I would like to commend the security agencies and all those who played a role in this refreshing development.”
The LP presidential flagbearer, however, cautioned against any sense of comfort or premature celebration.
“There must be no relenting or relaxing until all the children are fully reunited with their families, whose situation must have been deeply agonising.
“There is also a pressing need for both security agencies and school authorities nationwide to remain proactive and ensure that adequate security measures are put in place to frustrate the plans of criminals,” he stated.
Stronger preventive measures
Obi, however, urged security agencies to remain vigilant and sustain pressure on the criminal networks responsible for the attacks.
Beyond immediate rescue efforts, Obi emphasized the need for stronger preventive measures across schools, churches, and vulnerable communities nationwide.
He called on security agencies, state governments, and school administrators to adopt proactive strategies to “frustrate the plans of criminals” before attacks occur.
This, he said, includes:
- improved intelligence gathering,
- strengthened community policing structures,
- heightened surveillance around educational institutions, and,
- better coordination between federal and state security outfits.
Obi reiterated that Nigeria’s worsening insecurity demands a more urgent and coordinated national response.
He insisted that every child — regardless of location — deserves safety, dignity, and uninterrupted learning.
“We must build a country where parents no longer live in fear of receiving devastating phone calls,” he said.
He concluded by saluting the courage of the rescued victims, the resilience of their families, and the commitment of security personnel involved in the operations.
He, meanwhile, urged the government to ensure the safe return of all remaining abductees still in captivity.
