An Enugu-based Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, has condemned the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, stating that anyone seeking political change cannot achieve such an objective through the kidnapping of innocent children.

Mbaka made the remarks in a video seen on Monday while reacting to the incident, which has sparked concerns over the security situation in the country.

The cleric called on the Oyo State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Addressing Governor Seyi Makinde, Mbaka urged the state government to take decisive action, stressing that the safety of citizens must remain a top priority.

“If they want to overthrow Tinubu, it is not by kidnapping our children so that the whole of Nigeria will become angry with the President,” he said.

Mbaka also alleged that some actors may be exploiting insecurity for political purposes, drawing parallels with challenges experienced during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

The priest further questioned the motives behind the rising incidents of insecurity and warned that no one should consider themselves immune from the threat posed by criminal activities.

Expressing concern over the fate of the abducted children, he called for urgent intervention, saying the victims could belong to any family and that authorities must act swiftly to ensure their safe return.

The comments come amid growing public concern over the increasing cases of kidnappings and attacks on schools across parts of the country.