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