Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu over what he described as a lack of urgency in securing the release of pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Atiku accused the Federal Government of failing to demonstrate adequate commitment to the rescue of the victims, alleging that officials appeared more focused on political activities and public celebrations than on addressing the ongoing crisis involving abducted schoolchildren and their teachers.

He also questioned the public response of political leaders to the situation, arguing that Nigerians expected stronger empathy and sustained national attention to the plight of the victims.

The former vice president further warned that the increasing frequency of kidnappings across the country risks eroding public confidence in government if not urgently addressed. He called on security agencies to deploy all available intelligence and operational resources to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.

The victims were kidnapped in Oyo State nearly three weeks ago, alongside other recent school abductions that have heightened concerns over insecurity and prompted renewed calls for stronger protection of schools nationwide.