The Nigeria Democratic Congress senatorial candidate for Osun Central, Nathaniel Oduyemi, has called on the Federal Government to seek support from international partners in addressing the growing insecurity across the country. He said the current response to the crisis does not reflect the level of urgency required.
Oduyemi expressed deep concern over the rising cases of kidnappings, especially those involving schoolchildren and their teachers. According to him, the increasing frequency and boldness of these attacks point to clear weaknesses in the nation’s security system.
He urged parents and guardians not to remain passive, but to take extra steps to ensure the safety of their children as insecurity continues to spread across different parts of the country. He also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to show stronger leadership, compassion, and urgency in handling the situation.
Speaking on the matter, Oduyemi said he has been deeply disturbed by the continued abductions of schoolchildren, describing it as a painful reminder of the insecurity facing the nation. He stressed that schools, which should be safe spaces for learning, are now being targeted, putting the future of the country at risk.
He noted that while kidnapping is not a new issue in Nigeria, the recent surge in attacks shows a worrying level of confidence among criminals. He added that their actions now suggest a lack of fear of consequences, while citizens are left feeling exposed and unprotected.
The senatorial candidate also criticised what he described as a slow and insufficient response from the Federal Government, particularly in handling recent incidents. He pointed to the delay in action following the abduction of schoolchildren in Ogbomosho, saying families were left in anguish while the nation waited for decisive steps.
Oduyemi further expressed concern that public perception may be shifting toward believing that political considerations influence how security issues are addressed. He warned that such a perception could weaken national unity, stressing that every Nigerian child deserves equal protection regardless of political or regional differences.
He also questioned the handling of official visits to crisis areas, suggesting that coordination between authorities should take priority over public displays, especially when lives are at risk. According to him, Nigerians expect results and not symbolic gestures during emergencies.
While calling for stronger community awareness, Oduyemi urged parents to remain vigilant and adopt additional safety measures to protect their children. He said the current situation demands heightened caution and cooperation at the community level.
Addressing President Tinubu directly, Oduyemi appealed for decisive action, saying the lives of children should never be compromised by delays or bureaucracy. He urged the President to demonstrate leadership marked by courage and empathy in confronting the security challenges.
He further advised that if the situation proves too complex for existing strategies, the Federal Government should not hesitate to engage international assistance and explore broader security partnerships. He stressed that all available resources must be deployed to tackle the rising threat.
Oduyemi concluded by noting that history will ultimately judge leaders based on how they respond in moments of national distress, adding that this is a critical time for firm and decisive action to protect every Nigerian life.
