Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the recent attacks in Kebbi and Zamfara States, which resulted in the abduction of several schoolgirls and the killing of multiple residents.

In a statement issued from Monaco, Italy, Obi described the incidents as “devastating and unacceptable losses,” extending his condolences to the affected families and communities.

Obi Laments Rising Insecurity

“My heart is heavy in faraway Monaco as I receive the heartbreaking news from Kebbi State about the attack on Maga Comprehensive Girls’ Secondary School, which led to the abduction of several young female students and the killing of a staff member,” Obi said.

He noted that similar atrocities continue to unfold across the country.
“In Zamfara State, bandits reportedly killed three persons and abducted about 64 others in Fegin Baza village, Tsafe LGA. These are devastating and unacceptable losses.”

Calls for Urgent and Comprehensive Security Action

Obi urged the Nigerian government at all levels to intensify security efforts, overhaul the country’s security architecture, and take immediate steps to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted girls.

“Entire communities are living in fear; schools—safe havens for learning—are now vulnerable targets. Families are being torn apart, and innocent lives are being destroyed. This is not the Nigeria we should accept,” he said.

He stressed that the protection of children and vulnerable communities must be a national priority.

“At this difficult time, we must strengthen our resolve to secure every part of our nation. I call on the government at all levels to urgently intensify security efforts, overhaul our security architecture, ensure the safe rescue of the abducted girls, and prevent further attacks on our schools and communities.”

Prayers for Victims and Security Agencies

Obi offered prayers for the victims and their families.
“Our children must never be left at the mercy of terrorists. May the soul of the staff member who lost his life rest in peace, and may God comfort the bereaved families and grant them the strength to bear these unimaginable losses.”

He also prayed for the safe return of the abducted schoolgirls and divine guidance for security agencies working to rescue them.

“I pray for the safe return of the abducted girls and for healing and protection for every affected family. May God guide our security agencies as they work tirelessly to bring them home.”

“Nigeria Must Do Better”

Concluding his statement, Obi reiterated that the Nigerian state owes its citizens safety and peace.

“Nigeria must do better. Our children deserve safety, and our people deserve peace,” he said.