Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed concern over what he sees as Nigeria’s increasing desensitisation to school abductions, warning that incidents that once sparked nationwide outrage are now being met with troubling silence.
Reflecting on the 2014 abduction of schoolgirls in Chibok, Obi noted that the tragedy united Nigerians across political and ethnic lines and drew international attention through the #BringBackOurGirls campaign. According to him, the movement generated significant pressure on authorities and kept the issue in the public spotlight.
Obi argued that the most worrying change today is not just the continued occurrence of such attacks, but the apparent decline in public reaction. He questioned whether repeated insecurity has become so common that it no longer shocks the nation’s conscience or provokes sustained demands for accountability.
The former governor also criticised what he described as a political environment increasingly focused on electoral calculations rather than addressing insecurity, poverty, and economic hardship. He warned that these challenges have continued to damage Nigeria’s reputation on the global stage.
Rejecting what he called denial and propaganda as solutions, Obi maintained that only leadership that is competent, compassionate, and accountable can effectively tackle the country’s security and development challenges.
Addressing young Nigerians, he urged them not to become indifferent to the nation’s problems, repeating his familiar message: “Take back your country,” while expressing confidence that “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
His comments have reignited discussions online about the state of insecurity in Nigeria, the responsibilities of political leaders, and whether repeated tragedies are gradually reducing public sensitivity to issues that once united the country in collective action.
Reactions
“He has a point. Many incidents that would have dominated national conversations years ago now disappear from the headlines within days.”
“The real issue is whether governments at all levels are doing enough to prevent these attacks and protect schools.”
“People are tired and overwhelmed by the number of crises happening at the same time, but that should not mean silence.”
“Others argue that social media outrage alone is not enough and that practical solutions and accountability are what matter most.”
“The debate highlights a larger question: has constant exposure to insecurity made Nigerians less responsive, or have people simply lost confidence that public pressure will lead to change?”
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Published by Ejoh Caleb
