Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi called on Nigerian security forces to demonstrate equal commitment and urgency in rescuing all kidnapped citizens, following the swift response to the abduction of former Lagos Police Commissioner Hakeem Odumosu’s wife.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja yesterday, Obi emphasized the need for security agencies to treat every kidnapping case with the same level of seriousness and dedication, regardless of the victim’s social status or connections. The former Anambra State governor’s comments come amid growing concerns about Nigeria’s escalating kidnapping crisis.

While I commend the police for their quick response in the case of CP Odumosu’s wife, we must ensure that every Nigerian citizen receives the same level of attention when faced with such traumatic experiences,” Obi stated. He highlighted how ordinary citizens often struggle to get adequate police response when their family members are kidnapped.

The presidential candidate pointed to several recent kidnapping cases across the country where victims’ families reported delayed or inadequate police response. He emphasized that the constitution guarantees equal protection for all citizens, noting that selective application of security measures undermines public trust in law enforcement institutions.Show Same Urgency for All Kidnap Victims as Odumosu's Wife - Peter Obi to Police

Security expert Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed supported Obi’s position, noting that disparities in police response times often correlate with victims’ social status. “When high-profile individuals or their family members are kidnapped, we typically see rapid deployment of resources and personnel. However, ordinary citizens sometimes wait days before receiving significant police attention,” Mohammed explained.

The discourse around kidnapping response protocols has gained renewed attention following several high-profile abductions across the country. Statistics from security monitoring groups indicate a sharp rise in kidnapping incidents over the past year, with victims ranging from school children to market women and travelers.

Obi’s intervention has sparked broader discussions about police reform and the need for standardized response protocols in kidnapping cases. Civil society organizations have joined the call for equal treatment, with many advocating for established timelines and procedures that would apply uniformly to all kidnapping cases.

Human rights lawyer Barrister Victoria Adeyemi emphasized the legal implications of discriminatory security responses: “The constitution is clear about equality before the law. When security agencies respond differently based on social status, they violate this fundamental principle and potentially face legal challenges.

The Labour Party leader also addressed the root causes of Nigeria’s security challenges, calling for comprehensive reforms in police funding, training, and equipment. He stressed that improved welfare for security personnel would enhance their capability to respond effectively to all security threats, regardless of the victim’s status.

Community leaders across the country have echoed Obi’s concerns, sharing experiences of delayed police response in kidnapping cases affecting their communities. Chief Ademola Johnson, a community leader in Ogun State, recounted instances where families had to mobilize resources for search efforts due to limited police engagement.

The police high command, responding to Obi’s comments, assured the public of their commitment to protecting all citizens equally. However, they acknowledged challenges including limited resources, personnel constraints, and the need for better equipment to combat sophisticated criminal networks.

Security analysts have proposed various solutions to address the disparity in response times, including the establishment of a centralized kidnapping response unit with standardized protocols. They suggest that such a unit would help eliminate bias and ensure consistent handling of all cases.

Obi’s statement has resonated with many Nigerians who have shared their experiences on social media, with some recounting difficulties in getting police attention for kidnapping cases involving their relatives. The hashtag #EqualSecurityForAll has gained traction, amplifying calls for reformed security response protocols.

The former governor also emphasized the role of technology in modern security operations, suggesting that the police force needs better equipment and training to track and respond to kidnapping incidents promptly. He noted that many successful rescues in recent times involved the use of advanced surveillance and tracking technologies.

As debates continue about police reform and security response protocols, Obi’s intervention has highlighted the urgent need for standardized procedures in handling kidnapping cases. His comments have sparked important conversations about equality in security service delivery and the need for comprehensive police reform.

The ongoing discussion reflects broader concerns about Nigeria’s security challenges and the need for systemic changes to ensure all citizens receive equal protection under the law. As the country grapples with these issues, the call for equal treatment in security response continues to gain support across various segments of society.

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