The Federal Government of Nigeria has been challenged by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to facilitate actions that would culminate in the safe release and return of the Chibok schoolgirls that are still under the captivity of Boko Haram insurgents.
Africa Today News, New York recalls that exactly 10 years ago, on the 14th April, 2014, about 276 schoolgirls were abducted by Boko Haram insurgents from Government Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State, as they were preparing for examinations.
The abduction generated global outcry with pressure and demand on the Goodluck Jonathan-led government to facilitate the rescue and safe return of the schoolgirls. Some have been rescued few years after but quite a number are still in Boko Haram captivity.
Rev. Ozumba Emmanuel Nicodemus, CAN’s National Director for Education, Youth and Women Development, in a statement, yesterday, called on the government to mobilize all available resources, engage relevant security agencies, and collaborate with international partners to secure the release of the remaining Chibok girls without delay.
“This is not only a matter of national importance, but also a test of our commitment to upholding the rights and safety of our citizens, particularly the most vulnerable among us. We also implore international community, humanitarian organizations, and well-meaning individuals to join CAN in advocating for the release of the Chibok girls. Together, we can amplify our voices and exert greater pressure on the abductors to bring an end to this prolonged ordeal.
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“The trauma experienced by the 276 abducted girls is unimaginable. The pain and anguish felt by their parents, who have endured sleepless nights filled with hopelessness, are deeply felt by CAN, hence we cannot remain silent while these children remain in captivity, yearning for freedom and reunion with their families.
“CAN, hereby, reiterates unwavering demand for the government to intensify efforts and take decisive action to rescue the remaining children still held hostage. It is our duty as a nation to ensure their safe return, and to bring an end to the anguish and suffering endured by these innocent young girls and their families.”
Rev Nicodemus said that CAN remains resolute in its commitment to seeking justice and ensuring the safe return of the Chibok girls, and will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders and utilize all available avenues to shed light on their plight and secure their release,” he said.
He encouraged all Nigerians to stand united, lend their voices, and demand immediate action from the government. “Let us show our unwavering support for the families of the Chibok girls and demonstrate our collective determination to bring them back home to reunite with their families,” he demanded.