Prominent Figures Demand Action on Abducted Nigerian Children

On May 27, 2023, Nigeria marked Children's Day amidst widespread grief and condemnation over the abduction of schoolchildren. Prominent figures such as Obiageli Ezekwesili, co-founder of Transparency International, and social media influencer Enioluwa Adeoluwa voiced their outrage on various platforms.

Ezekwesili published an open letter to President Bola Tinubu and state governors, criticizing the political class for their silence and failure to act on the kidnapping crisis. She highlighted that at least 1,799 students have been abducted, including those from Oyo State, and emphasized the dire educational situation where 19 million Nigerian children, representing 27% of the youth population, do not attend school due to threats from kidnappers and poverty.

Adeoluwa also expressed concern for children living in fear and called for a collective effort to ensure their safety. The sentiments resonated widely, with many Nigerians expressing their displeasure over the government's inaction regarding the safety of children.