Former Anambra State governor and presidential hopeful of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has urged the government to take firm and decisive steps in tackling insecurity to safeguard schools and communities across the country.
Obi made the call on Thursday during a visit to Practicing Nursery and Primary School, where he stressed the importance of quality education in national development.
The former governor said insecurity remains a major threat to learning and societal progress, insisting that strong political will is needed to defeat terrorists and criminal groups operating in the country.
Reacting to the recent kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Oyo State, Obi said protecting schools should be treated as a priority, adding that securing educational institutions goes hand in hand with ensuring the safety of the wider society.
“We do not only need to secure our schools from insecurity but also the society,” Obi said.
According to him, defeating insecurity requires leaders who are determined and willing to take tough decisions in the interest of the people.
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Obi recalled his time as governor of Anambra State, stating that his administration adopted decisive measures that helped maintain security in the state during his tenure.
“It needs decisiveness and the will power of those in government for us to defeat them,” he added.
The former Labour Party presidential candidate has consistently advocated increased investment in education, security and human capital development, describing education as a critical driver of economic growth and national transformation.