The commendation is contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr Tony Ojukwu, SAN.
Ojukwu said that the operation must mark the beginning of a sustained nationwide effort to free hundreds of Nigerians still being held by kidnappers across the country
“Every life matters. The joy of one family reunited must become the standard for every family still waiting in anguish.
“While we commend this rescue, we are reminded that hundreds of Nigerians are still missing, still suffering, and still hoping.
“The state has a duty to protect the right to life and personal liberty of every citizen under Section 33 and 35 of the 1999 Constitution” he said.
He called on the Federal and State Governments and security agencie to intensify intelligence gathering, strengthen inter-agency collaboration, and prioritise victim-centered rescue operations.
Reports that the victims were kidnapped on May 15, when armed assailants attacked their school in Oriire Local Government.
The victims regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity on Friday.
They were freed following a coordinated, multi-agency rescue operation led by the Nigerian military. (NAN)
