Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu over the continued captivity of pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State.

Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), accused the Federal Government of failing to demonstrate sufficient urgency in securing the release of the victims.

In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, the former vice president said the government appeared more focused on political activities than addressing the plight of the abducted pupils and their teachers.

Atiku also criticized the First Lady, saying Nigerians expected stronger public advocacy for the safe return of the victims and further argued that political activities and celebrations should not take precedence over efforts to secure the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers.

Atiku further stated that while parents of the abducted pupils have endured weeks of anxiety and uncertainty, Nigerians have been confronted with scenes of political events, campaign-style activities and the distribution of vehicles to political allies.

He also chided what he described as extravagant displays of power by public officials at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship and worsening insecurity.

The former vice president warned that the growing frequency of kidnappings across the country could erode public confidence in government if not decisively addressed.

He called on the Federal Government to deploy all available security and intelligence resources to secure the release of the victims and bring those responsible to justice.

The pupils and teachers were abducted in Oyo State nearly three weeks ago, sparking concerns over their safety and renewed calls for improved security across the country.