Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly criticised Nigeria’s security priorities following the recent abduction incident in Benue State.
Reacting via social media, Obi described the situation as both heartbreaking and alarming, especially as some of the victims are believed to be candidates heading for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
“This is a damning indictment of leadership and the collapse of security,” he stated.
According to him, the incident goes beyond a single attack, warning that it reflects a growing national crisis.
Obi also raised concerns about the safety of young Nigerians pursuing education, noting that insecurity is now directly affecting their future.
“Young Nigerians striving for education are being met with terror,” he added.
He further compared Nigeria’s low rate of tertiary education attainment with countries like Indonesia and South Africa, stressing that the nation cannot afford to lose more students to violence.
In a more pointed remark, Obi accused those responsible for national security of being distracted by political ambitions.
“Those entrusted with protecting these students appear more focused on elections than on securing lives,” he said.
The abduction occurred in Otukpo when gunmen attacked a bus belonging to Benue Links Limited, robbing passengers before taking several of them into the bush.
While figures remain unclear, police confirmed that at least 14 persons were abducted, with some victims already rescued and others still in captivity.
Security agencies have since intensified operations in the area, deploying tactical units to track down the attackers and secure the release of the remaining victims.
Obi concluded by warning that the situation is no longer isolated but part of a disturbing pattern, calling for urgent and decisive action from leadership.
