The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the Federal Government to intensify its efforts to ensure the release of the remaining Chibok girls in the captivity of Islamic terrorists in the country.
The body made the call on Saturday, April 13 in a statement signed by its director of Education, Youth, and Women, Rev. Ozumba Emmanuel Nicodemus,
CAN made the call ahead of the 10th anniversary of the girls in the custody of the Islamic terrorist group
It will be recalled that about 276 female students between the ages of 16 and 18 were kidnapped on the night of April 14 by Boko Haram from the Government Girls Secondary School in the town of Chibok in Borno State, Nigeria.
The students were reportedly writing exams when the terrorists invaded the school and took them away into captivity. 57 of the schoolgirls were said to have escaped by jumping from the trucks on which they were being transported. Some others were said to have been rescued by the Nigerian Armed Forces on various occasions.
Amina Ali, one of the missing girls, according to reports was found in May 2016. She claimed that the remaining girls were still there, but that six had died. There have been conflicting reports of their condition in the custody of the terrorist group. But there’s hope for the eventual release of the remaining girls.
As of 14 April 2021, seven years after the initial kidnapping, over 100 of the girls remain missing, it is not clear if more of the girls have been released.
FG urged to intensify efforts
But CAN in the statement asked 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.” the statement read.
CAN stated that it’s “in solidarity with the families and loved ones of the Chibok girls, who have endured ten (10) long years of captivity. The case of the Chibok girls cannot be swept under the carpet, as it represents a horrific tragedy that has left an indelible mark on the nation’s conscience.”
The Christian body noted that 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. We cannot remain silent while their children remain in captivity, yearning for freedom and reunion with their families.
“We call 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.” the body stated
International Community
CAN also implored the international community, humanitarian organizations, and well-meaning individuals to join hands with it in advocating for the girls’ release. “Together, we can amplify our voices and exert greater pressure on the abductors to bring an end to this prolonged ordeal.
“CAN remains resolute in its commitment to seeking justice and ensuring the safe return of the Chibok girls. We will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders and utilize all available avenues to shed light on their plight and secure their release.
It called on all Nigerians “to stand united, lend their voices, and demand immediate government action. 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.”