The National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL) has warned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against turning the nation’s security challenges, particularly the recurring school kidnappings, into tools for political attacks.
In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Hon. Nnana Igbokwe, the Forum expressed disappointment over recent remarks credited to the PDP on the federal government’s handling of abductions in parts of the country.
The NFFL said such comments were insensitive to the trauma of victims, their families, and the collective anxiety shared by Nigerians grappling with rising insecurity.
According to the Forum, moments of national grief should inspire unity and constructive engagement, not “opportunistic attempts to weaponise tragedy for political gains.”
“Unfortunately, the PDP could turn an issue as sensitive as kidnapping into a political tool of attack just to score cheap political points,” the statement read. “What is expected of any conscious reasoning citizen or responsible organisation is to proffer advice or meaningful solutions on how this cankerworm can be tamed.”
The NFFL accused the opposition party of exploiting national distress, warning that such rhetoric risks escalating tensions and undermining ongoing efforts to tackle criminality. It urged the PDP to demonstrate restraint and patriotism by avoiding actions that “toy with the emotions of Nigerians” at a time when many families remain traumatised.
Beyond cautioning the PDP, the Forum criticised what it described as the party’s refusal to put its own house in order. “Rather than abide by their party constitution and obey court pronouncements, they prefer to waste their energy seeking undue public attention and sympathy by raising misleading claims,” it said.
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The former lawmakers called for unity of purpose in confronting insecurity, insisting that political parties should support—not sabotage—efforts aimed at restoring public safety. They urged security agencies to intensify investigations into suspected politically sponsored criminal activities allegedly designed to discredit the government.
“At this crucial moment, Nigerians deserve responsible leadership, not divisive politics,” the Forum stressed. “Political actors must rise above partisan calculations and support every effort aimed at restoring peace, protecting our children, and ensuring national stability.”
The NFFL reaffirmed its readiness to back initiatives that strengthen security institutions, promote peace, and safeguard lives nationwide.
It also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the recent rescue of 38 kidnapped persons in Eruku community, Kwara State, describing it as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to citizens’ safety.