Renowned former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has delivered a sharp rebuke to the Federal Government and the entire Nigerian political class on Children’s Day, declaring that leaders lack the moral authority to extend greetings to the nation’s children amid persistent insecurity, school abductions, and systemic neglect.
In a strongly worded statement issued as Nigeria marked Children’s Day on May 27, she urged President Bola Tinubu, Vice President, state governors, members of the National Assembly, and all political leaders to refrain from issuing ceremonial messages that she described as hollow and undeserved.
Ezekwesili argued that a government unable to protect its children has forfeited the right to celebrate them. She highlighted the ongoing crisis of school abductions, educational setbacks, and widespread vulnerability facing millions of Nigerian children.
According to her, the political class has captured and undermined the Nigerian state, leaving children exposed to danger instead of providing the safety, quality education, and opportunities they deserve. She emphasized that leaders should focus on actionable protection and genuine investment in the future generation rather than empty rhetoric and photo opportunities on symbolic days.
Her message resonates deeply with many Nigerians concerned about the recurring incidents of violence in schools and the broader failure to prioritize child welfare. As a vocal advocate for good governance and accountability, Ezekwesili has consistently called for transformative leadership that addresses foundational issues such as security and human capital development.
Her intervention on Children’s Day serves as a sobering reminder that true celebration of children must begin with concrete steps to safeguard their lives and futures, not mere words that ring hollow in the face of continued failures.
This latest criticism underscores the growing public demand for the Federal Government to move beyond annual observances and tackle the root causes of insecurity and educational decay that continue to threaten Nigeria’s youngest citizens. Stakeholders across civil society now expect urgent and decisive actions to restore confidence and demonstrate genuine commitment to protecting Nigerian children.
