By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu over the continued captivity of pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State nearly three weeks ago.
In a statement released on Friday through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku accuses the Federal Government of failing to act with the urgency required to secure the victims’ release.
According to Atiku, the government appears more focused on political activities and celebrations while families of the abducted pupils and teachers continue to endure uncertainty and emotional distress.
“It is difficult to understand how a government that claims to care for its citizens could continue to project an atmosphere of celebration while innocent children and their teachers remain at the mercy of kidnappers,” Atiku said.
He stressed that leadership goes beyond holding public office and should be demonstrated through empathy and decisive action during times of national crisis.
“Leadership is not merely about occupying office; it is about demonstrating empathy when citizens are in distress,” he added.
Former Vice President Criticises First Lady’s Silence
Atiku also criticised First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, saying Nigerians expected stronger public advocacy and intervention on behalf of the abducted pupils and teachers.
He argued that political engagements and public celebrations should not overshadow efforts to secure the release of citizens held by kidnappers.
“A true mother does not celebrate while her children are missing. A true mother does not preside over political festivities while families are trapped in agony, praying daily for the safe return of their loved ones,” he stated.
Public Frustration Grows Amid Security Concerns
The former vice president said images of political gatherings and celebrations circulating online have further heightened public frustration as affected families continue to wait for positive news.
According to him, the contrast between the suffering of victims’ families and ongoing political activities has raised questions about the government’s priorities.
“When children are missing, the nation expects urgency. When teachers are abducted, the nation expects compassion. What Nigerians do not expect is political pageantry,” Atiku said.
Atiku Calls for Immediate Rescue Efforts
Expressing concern over Nigeria’s broader security challenges, Atiku warned that recurring kidnappings and attacks could further weaken public confidence in government institutions.
He called on the Federal Government to deploy all available security and intelligence resources to secure the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers and ensure those responsible face justice.
Oyo School Abduction Sparks Nationwide Concern
The victims were reportedly abducted from schools in Oyo State nearly three weeks ago, triggering nationwide concern and renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect schools, students, teachers, and local communities from criminal attacks.
The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns about insecurity in parts of the country and the need for more effective strategies to safeguard educational institutions.
