Former Vice-President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised President Bola Tinubu for not addressing Nigerians following the rescue of dozens of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State.
The criticism comes after security agencies secured the release of 39 schoolchildren and six teachers who were kidnapped during attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State nearly two months ago. The victims were rescued in an operation announced by the Presidency, bringing an end to weeks of anxiety for their families and communities.
In a statement, Atiku acknowledged the successful rescue operation and commended the efforts of security personnel involved in securing the victims’ freedom. However, he argued that President Tinubu missed an important opportunity to demonstrate leadership by personally addressing the nation after the rescue.
According to the former vice-president, Nigerians deserved to hear directly from the President on the circumstances surrounding the operation, the condition of the rescued victims and the administration’s broader strategy for tackling the country’s worsening insecurity.
Atiku maintained that a presidential address would have reassured citizens, honoured the resilience of the rescued pupils, teachers and their families, and strengthened public confidence in the government’s commitment to protecting lives.
He also stressed the need for sustained efforts to improve security across the country, noting that the rescue should serve as renewed momentum for authorities to prevent similar incidents and ensure schools remain safe for children and educators.
The rescue of the Oyo schoolchildren and teachers has been widely welcomed across the country after weeks of public concern over their captivity, with many Nigerians describing the operation as a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and insecurity.
