“Leave Innocent Children Out of Politics” – Femi Branch Speaks After Release of Oyo School Kidnap Victims

Nollywood actor Femi Branch has appealed to Nigerian politicians to stop dragging innocent children into political disputes following the release of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers from Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

In a video shared on his Instagram page, the actor reacted to the recent release of the 46 pupils and teachers, who regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity.

The emotional appeal comes amid renewed conversations over insecurity and comments made by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde regarding the incident.

Branch urged political leaders, regardless of affiliation, to ensure children are not caught in the middle of political conflicts.

“I just want to make an appeal and beg us in this country. I’m not directing this to anybody but I’m begging all of us that whatever dirty politics that we’re all playing, can we just leave the innocent children out of it.”

The actor lamented the hardships already facing Nigerian children, arguing that the country's education system presents enough challenges without exposing pupils to traumatic experiences such as kidnapping.

“The children in this country are suffering enough. The so-called school they are going, the quality of the education, and everything is scrambled, they are suffering enough. Can we just leave them out of this dirty politics that we’re playing?”

Branch also highlighted the emotional impact of the prolonged captivity, stressing that the children would require psychological support after spending nearly two months in the hands of their abductors.

Referring to Governor Makinde's remarks, he said:

“The governor came out and said he declared to be president at 4 p.m. and by 9 a.m. the next morning is when they packed the children and the teachers away, thereby insinuating that it was a political game. Can we just leave these poor children out of our dirty politics? Please, I’m not attacking or calling out anybody, I’m just appealing to us to leave the innocent children out of our madness.”

His comments have resonated with many Nigerians, who continue to express concern over the recurring abduction of schoolchildren and the need for stronger measures to protect educational institutions across the country.

Opinion:

Femi Branch's appeal goes beyond politics and speaks to a broader national concern. Regardless of differing political opinions, the safety of children should remain a common priority. School abductions leave lasting psychological scars on victims, families and communities, making prevention, swift rescue efforts and post-trauma support just as important as public debate. Protecting children should never become a partisan issue.