Femi Branch Urges Politicians to Keep Children Out of Politics Following Oyo School Abduction

Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Ruth .J

Nollywood actor has called on Nigerian political leaders to stop using the suffering of children for political purposes, following the recent release of abducted pupils and teachers from .

In a video shared on his Instagram page on Saturday, Branch expressed concern over the trauma endured by the victims, who spent 56 days in captivity before regaining their freedom. He urged politicians across the country to put the welfare of children above political interests, stressing that young Nigerians are already facing significant challenges within the country's education system.

His comments followed the release of 46 pupils and teachers who were kidnapped from schools in Orire Local Government Area of . The victims were freed on Friday, July 10, 2026, after weeks in captivity.

Branch also reacted to remarks made by , who had suggested that the timing of the abduction raised political questions. According to the actor, political disagreements should never involve innocent children.

"I want to appeal to everyone in this country. Whatever dirty politics we are playing, let us leave innocent children out of it," Branch said.

He noted that many Nigerian children already face difficulties due to the state of the country's education system and argued that the abducted pupils would likely require psychological support after their ordeal.

"The children are suffering enough. The quality of education is already poor, and now innocent children spent 56 days in the bush. They must be traumatised and deserve proper care and attention," he added.

Referring to the governor's comments, Branch said the suggestion that the kidnapping may have been politically motivated should not overshadow the welfare of the victims.

"I'm not attacking or calling out anybody. I'm simply appealing to everyone to leave innocent children out of our political games," he said.

The release of the Orire school victims has renewed public concern over insecurity and the safety of schools in Nigeria, with many citizens and stakeholders calling for stronger measures to protect students and educational institutions from further attacks.