By Ado Oyeyemi
The Christian Association of Nigeria, Borno State chapter, has called for the immediate rescue of 78 schoolchildren and others who have spent more than 100 days in captivity in the state.
The state CAN Chairman, John Bakeni, made the call on Sunday during a prayer session organised in Maiduguri to mark the association’s 50th anniversary.
Bakeni said the continued abduction of schoolchildren and persistent insecurity had made the anniversary celebration a sober occasion for the association and residents of the state.
“CAN is 50. There are lots of events and activities that have been lined up. Sadly, at the state level, our celebration is a sober one,” he said.
He said the association had continued to use advocacy to draw the attention of relevant authorities to the plight of people being held in captivity.
“These kids have spent over 100 days in captivity. You can imagine the pain, agony and trauma their parents are going through,” Bakeni said.
The CAN chairman urged the Federal Government, Borno State Government, security agencies and other stakeholders involved in the rescue efforts to intensify their operations and secure the release of the abducted persons.
“It is a responsibility that rests on their shoulders. We urge them to do something to rescue the abducted persons because it is long overdue,” he said.
Bakeni also said CAN would continue to pray for peace in Borno and the safe return of those in captivity despite the security challenges confronting the state.
The 78 schoolchildren were reportedly abducted in two separate attacks in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
On May 16, suspected Boko Haram terrorists reportedly attacked Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School, abducting 42 pupils and students.
On June 29, suspected Boko Haram terrorists invaded Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, in the same local government area and abducted 36 students and a teacher.
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The two incidents brought the number of schoolchildren reported missing from the schools to 78.
