Pastor Nathaniel Bassey, a prominent gospel singer and convener of the Hallelujah Challenge, has voiced strong concern over the apparent indifference of Nigerians to the ongoing abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State. Speaking during a recent church programme, Bassey questioned how citizens can continue with celebrations and daily routines while dozens of children remain in captivity following the May 15 kidnapping incident. He emphasized that the situation reflects a troubling lack of empathy and national conscience, especially as one teacher was killed and another threatened with beheading.
Bassey lamented that in many other countries, the abduction of even a single child would trigger immediate, full-scale military and diplomatic responses. “How can 42 children be in captivity and we are still partying? And we are still normal?” he asked. He described the national response as alarming, suggesting that people’s consciences have become “seared.” He also pointed out the irony that the incident occurred just days after Children’s Day, a time meant to celebrate and protect young lives.
The gospel minister recalled a vision he shared during the February 2026 edition of the Hallelujah Challenge, in which he saw armed groups advancing toward the South-West region of Nigeria. “Do you remember one time I told you that I was on a Sunday morning and I said that I saw them coming to the South?” he said, urging Nigerians to reflect on his earlier warnings. He explained that this vision was one of the reasons he repeatedly called for prayers for mercy, despite facing criticism at the time.
In his message, Bassey called for divine intervention against both the terrorists responsible for the abductions and the political leaders he believes have failed to act decisively. “Today I want you to be angry in your spirit. Both the terrorists, both the politicians who don’t care about it, God will uproot them,” he declared. He urged believers to pray fervently for national security, justice, and the safe return of the captives.
Social media reactions echoed his sentiments. One user, @sar_tomi, expressed deep sorrow, noting that the number of abducted children may now exceed 42 and warning of the long-term trauma similar to the Chibok girls’ ordeal. Another, @gistmilltv_, stressed that the issue transcends tribe, religion, and politics, urging all Nigerians to demand urgency in the search for the children. @freesmurk94 added that while prayer is important, competent leadership is essential to combat insecurity effectively.
The abduction of the Oyo State schoolchildren has reignited national conversations about security, governance, and civic responsibility. As the search for the captives continues, Pastor Bassey’s words serve as a stark reminder that every child’s safety should be a collective priority. The situation underscores the urgent need for coordinated action from both government and citizens to ensure that no child remains in captivity without a national outcry.
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