Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr Peter Obi, has called on the Federal Government to ensure the safe and unconditional release of worshippers abducted by bandits in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Reacting to the incident via his X handle, Obi expressed deep concern over the abduction of worshippers from ECWA Church and Cherubim and Seraphim Churches 1 and 2 in the community, an attack which he noted was initially denied by security agencies before later confirmation.
He faulted the handling of information surrounding the incident, questioning the credibility of early official narratives and the threats reportedly issued against individuals accused of spreading falsehood about the abductions.
“Since it has now been confirmed that over 150 worshippers were kidnapped from churches in Kaduna, where and how did those who denied the incident initially get their information?” Obi asked.
He further queried accountability in the system, adding: “Since those who denied the incident threatened to punish the people said to be spreading falsehood, who now faces the punishment?”
The former Anambra State governor argued that the episode exposed weaknesses in crisis response and leadership communication, insisting that the current administration must reassure Nigerians that the safety of lives remains a top national priority.
“In any serious country, this would trigger decisive national action, clear communication and visible leadership,” he said. “Leadership is not only about grabbing power; it is about presence. It is about speaking when citizens are hurting, acting when lives are at risk and showing clearly that every Nigerian life matters.”
Obi urged the Federal Government to move beyond rhetoric and deploy all necessary resources to secure the release of the victims without harm, while addressing the broader challenge of insecurity that continues to plague many parts of the country.
“We must act now to ensure that all victims are released safely and unharmed, and to continue confronting decisively this persistent crisis of insecurity in our nation. Enough is enough,” he stressed.
The Kaduna abduction has once again brought the nation’s security situation under sharp public scrutiny, with growing calls for stronger coordination, transparency and leadership in confronting banditry and protecting vulnerable communities.
Obi concluded his message with his trademark optimism, reaffirming his belief in national renewal: “A New Nigeria is POssible.”
