A public affairs commentator and advocate, Felix Oluwaseun Agbesanwa, has expressed deep concern over the growing insecurity in Nigeria, particularly the continued captivity of innocent children in the hands of kidnappers and terrorists, describing this year’s Children’s Day celebration as emotionally difficult for many affected families.
In a statement released on Tuesday to commemorate Children’s Day, Agbesanwa said the celebration loses its true meaning while several children remain in captivity across the country.
According to him, while some families celebrate with joy and thanksgiving, others are trapped in grief and uncertainty over the fate of their abducted children.
“For families whose children are presently in captivity, today cannot truly be called a celebration. While other homes may gather in joy, songs, and thanksgiving, some parents are shedding silent tears, uncertain of the safety and wellbeing of their beloved children,” he stated.
He described the situation as heartbreaking and unacceptable, noting that many innocent minors are exposed to fear, hunger, torture, and psychological trauma in the hands of criminal elements.
Agbesanwa stressed that the greatest Children’s Day gift Nigerians desire is not ceremonies or fanfare, but the safe rescue and return of all victims currently held by kidnappers.
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He called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts through urgent and strategic actions aimed at securing the unconditional release of all abducted children and other victims.
“The nation must rise beyond promises and demonstrate visible action that restores hope to grieving families,” he added.
The advocate also appealed to the Oyo State Government to place greater priority on the protection of lives and property, urging leaders to demonstrate compassion and responsibility in addressing worsening security concerns.
He further advised Governor Seyi Makinde to focus more on the security challenges confronting the state rather than political ambitions.
“History remembers leaders more for the lives they protected than for the political offices they pursued,” Agbesanwa stated.
He also charged labour leaders and critical stakeholders in Oyo State to rise in defence of the people and speak boldly on issues affecting distressed families, warning that silence during difficult times could weaken public confidence.
Speaking on the coincidence of Eid-el-Kabir and Children’s Day celebrations this year, Agbesanwa urged Nigerians to embrace the values of sacrifice, compassion, and love for humanity, while remembering families currently passing through pain and uncertainty.
He concluded by praying for comfort for affected families, strength for security personnel, and lasting peace and safety across the nation.
