We must refuse to normalise failure” — Peter Obi warns as school abductions lose national outrage

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has raised concerns over what he described as the growing acceptance of insecurity in Nigeria, particularly the increasing number of school abductions that no longer generate the level of national outrage they once did.

Reacting to recent incidents involving attacks on educational institutions and the abduction of students, Obi warned that Nigerians must resist the temptation to treat such tragedies as routine occurrences. According to him, the normalization of failure and insecurity poses a serious threat to the nation’s future.

The former Anambra State governor stressed that every case of school abduction should provoke strong public concern and urgent action from authorities. He argued that the safety of children and the protection of educational institutions must remain a national priority.

Obi noted that repeated attacks on schools have created fear among parents, students, and teachers, undermining efforts to improve access to education. He added that when citizens become desensitized to such incidents, it becomes easier for systemic problems to persist without adequate solutions.

The politician further called on government officials, security agencies, community leaders, and citizens to work together in addressing the root causes of insecurity. He emphasized the need for stronger preventive measures, improved intelligence gathering, and swift responses to threats against schools and communities.

His remarks have sparked discussions across social media platforms, with many Nigerians agreeing that the country must not lose its sense of urgency whenever lives are threatened. Others called for more concrete actions from leaders and institutions to ensure the safety of students nationwide.

Security experts have also warned that continued attacks on schools could discourage enrollment and negatively impact educational development, especially in vulnerable regions.

As concerns over insecurity persist, Obi’s comments have reignited conversations about the need for accountability, effective governance, and sustained public engagement in addressing the challenges facing the country.

The former presidential candidate concluded by urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue demanding better outcomes, insisting that no society can progress if it becomes comfortable with repeated failures and preventable tragedies.