The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Borno State chapter, has called for the immediate rescue of 78 schoolchildren and others who have spent more than 100 days in captivity across the state.
The CAN Chairman in the state, John Bakeni, made the call on Sunday during a prayer session organised to mark the association’s 50th anniversary in Maiduguri.
Bakeni said the abductions and persistent insecurity had made the celebration a sober one for the association, with many residents facing the combined challenges of insecurity and economic hardship.
“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 been using advocacy to draw the attention of the authorities to the plight of people 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.
He urged the Federal Government, Borno State Government, security agencies and other stakeholders involved in the rescue efforts to intensify their efforts to 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 the return of peace and the safe release of those in captivity despite the security challenges confronting the state.
42 students and pupils were abducted on May 16 after suspected Boko Haram terrorists attacked Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira-Uba Local Government Area.
On June 29, suspected Boko Haram terrorists invaded Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, in the same local government area and abducted 36 students and one teacher.
The two incidents brought the number of schoolchildren reported missing in the two attacks to 78.
