Former Labour Party presidential candidate and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) leader Peter Obi has declared that he would have personally gone into the forest where abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State were held if he had been Nigeria’s President, insisting that every captive would have been rescued.
Speaking during an interview on Afia TV’s Eastern Eye programme, Obi criticised the Federal Government’s handling of the prolonged abduction, arguing that decisive leadership requires direct engagement and unwavering commitment during national emergencies.
‘I Would Have Gone Into the Forest’
Obi said that, as President, he would have taken personal responsibility for the rescue mission, stressing that no effort would have been spared to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
He maintained that leadership demands courage, accountability and visible commitment during moments of national crisis.
Faults Tinubu’s Response
The former Anambra State governor also criticised President Bola Tinubu, alleging that the President did not personally reach out to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde during the more than 50-day ordeal.
Obi argued that national leaders must provide reassurance and coordinate closely with affected states whenever major security incidents occur.
Debate Over Rescue Operation Continues
The comments come after the Federal Government maintained that it successfully secured the victims’ release without paying ransom or negotiating with the kidnappers, describing the operation as a victory for intelligence-led security efforts.