Nollywood actor Femi Branch has urged Nigerians to keep children out of political disputes following the release of pupils and staff abducted in Oyo State.

Speaking in a video shared on social media, the actor said innocent children should never become victims of political battles or other interests. According to him, their welfare must always come first.

“I just want to appeal. I’m not directing this to anybody. I’m begging all of us in this country that whatever dirty politics we are all playing, whatever dirty games we are doing in this country, can we just leave these innocent children out of it?” he said.

Furthermore, Branch said children already face many challenges and should not suffer the trauma of abduction.

“The children in this country are suffering enough. They are suffering enough. The so-called schools that they are going to and the quality of education and everything are crap. Can we just leave them out of it?”

Concern over trauma

In addition, the actor highlighted the emotional impact of the ordeal on the children. He noted that they would need support after spending nearly two months in captivity.

“Fifty-seven days, or is it 55 days, innocent children were in the bush. Those kids need to be attended to because those kids must be traumatised by now. They need to be attended to. They need to be taken care of,” he said.

Meanwhile, Branch made the comments as Nigerians continued to react to the children’s release. The discussions followed remarks by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who questioned the timing of their freedom and suggested possible political undertones.

Appeal to all parties

However, Branch said he was not accusing anyone. Instead, he called on all parties to protect children from political disagreements.

“I’m not attacking anybody. I’m just appealing to us,” he added.

The pupils and staff regained their freedom after about 57 days in captivity. As a result, their release brought relief to families and many members of the public.

Following their release, the Oyo State Government said the children would receive medical care, counselling and psychosocial support. In the same vein, the incident has renewed calls for stronger school security and better protection for students across the country.