According to a report by Daily post, on Friday, Jun 5, 2026, The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has expressed concern over the continued captivity of schoolchildren and teachers who were abducted in Oyo State, accusing the Federal Government of failing to demonstrate the level of urgency required to secure their release.
The former vice president made his position known through a statement issued by his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, on Friday.
His remarks come amid growing concern among citizens and stakeholders over the fate of the victims, who were reportedly kidnapped on May 15, 2026.
The abduction of the pupils and their teachers has remained a major issue in public discussions since the incident occurred.
Families of the victims, community members, and concerned Nigerians have continued to call for intensified efforts to secure their release.
The incident has also renewed concerns about insecurity in parts of the country, particularly attacks targeting schools and educational institutions.
Many citizens have expressed worries about the safety of students and teachers, while urging authorities to strengthen security measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Atiku argued that while the affected families continue to endure uncertainty and emotional distress, government officials appear to be focused on other activities rather than giving full attention to the rescue of the victims.
According to him, the prolonged captivity of the schoolchildren and teachers should remain a matter of national concern and should receive priority attention from relevant authorities.
He maintained that the situation requires swift and coordinated action aimed at ensuring the safe return of those still being held by their abductors.
The former vice president also expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of visible urgency in addressing the crisis.
He stated that many Nigerians expected stronger public engagement and sustained efforts from government officials regarding the fate of the abducted children and teachers.
According to him, citizens naturally expect leaders to place humanitarian concerns at the center of national attention during moments of crisis.
He argued that the pain being experienced by affected families should remain a major concern until the victims are safely reunited with their loved ones.
Part of Atiku’s criticism was directed at activities involving First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.
He suggested that public officials should demonstrate greater sensitivity during periods when families are dealing with the trauma of abduction and uncertainty.
According to him, occasions involving celebrations, political events, or public ceremonies may create the impression that the suffering of affected families is not receiving the attention it deserves.
He stressed that national leaders are expected to use their platforms to amplify issues that affect vulnerable citizens, particularly when children are involved.
The statement emphasized the emotional burden currently being carried by the families of the abducted victims.
Relatives of the schoolchildren and teachers have reportedly spent weeks waiting for positive news regarding their loved ones.
The uncertainty surrounding their whereabouts has continued to generate anxiety among parents, guardians, and members of the affected communities.
Security experts often note that kidnapping incidents have consequences that extend beyond the immediate victims, affecting entire families and communities that are left struggling with fear and uncertainty.
Atiku also highlighted the importance of demonstrating compassion during times of national difficulty.
According to him, citizens expect government officials to project empathy and concern whenever lives are at risk.
He argued that situations involving kidnapped children and teachers require sustained public attention because of their impact on education, community stability, and public confidence.
The former vice president maintained that the rescue of the victims should remain a priority until a successful resolution is achieved.
The continued detention of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers has added to broader concerns about security challenges across different parts of Nigeria.
In recent years, kidnapping for ransom has remained one of the major security issues confronting several communities.
Educational institutions have occasionally become targets of criminal groups, creating fear among students, parents, and school administrators.
These incidents have often led to calls for stronger intelligence gathering, improved security infrastructure, and more effective collaboration among security agencies.
He said, “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.”