Nollywood actor Femi Branch has called on Nigerian politicians to stop politicizing issues involving children, following recent comments by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on the abduction of school pupils in the state.
In a video shared on Instagram on Saturday, Branch expressed concern over the growing trend of linking security crises to political narratives, urging leaders to prioritize the welfare of children.
His reaction comes after the release of 46 pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The victims regained freedom on July 10, 2026, after spending 56 days in captivity, following a joint security operation in which several suspects were arrested.
Governor Makinde had earlier suggested that the abduction occurred shortly after he declared his intention to run for the 2027 presidential election, raising concerns about possible political motives behind the incident.
Responding to the remarks, Branch urged political actors to avoid dragging children into political disputes.
“The children in this country are already suffering enough. They should not be used as part of any political game,” he said, stressing the psychological impact of the ordeal on the victims.
The actor also called for urgent care and support for the rescued children, noting that their time in captivity could leave lasting trauma.
The Oriire abduction, which occurred in May 2026, is part of a broader pattern of school kidnappings that has continued to raise concerns about security and the safety of students across Nigeria.
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