Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, has voiced strong disapproval regarding former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s refusal to acknowledge the liberation of school pupils and teachers in Oriire. The release occurred nearly 18 hours before the statement, yet Abubakar remained silent.
In a formal update shared on July 11, 2026, Onanuga pointed out that while the victims were held for 57 days, Abubakar frequently utilized the incident for political leverage during his campaign. He suggested that the former Vice President’s lack of response now implies he only shows interest when there is negative news to leverage against the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Conversely, Onanuga offered praise for the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi. He noted that Obi recognized the return of the hostages and encouraged the public to offer thanks, even though Obi refrained from expressing gratitude toward the federal security forces or the current government.
