Borno Leaders Appeal to Terrorists to Release 42 Abducted Schoolchildren
Prominent leaders and stakeholders from Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State have appealed to terrorists holding 42 abducted schoolchildren to release them immediately and unconditionally.
The appeal was made on Monday in Maiduguri during a press briefing led by the Deputy Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdullahi Askira.
The stakeholders expressed deep concern over the continued captivity of the pupils, who were abducted three weeks ago, saying the incident has left families and residents traumatised and anxious.
Speaking on behalf of the affected communities, Askira described the abduction as heartbreaking and urged the kidnappers to show compassion.
“These are children, not soldiers or politicians. They are the future of Borno State and Nigeria. We appeal to those holding them to listen to their conscience and release them without conditions,” he said.
He also called on the abductors to fear God and refrain from using innocent children as bargaining tools.
According to Askira, community leaders had initially remained silent out of confidence that security agencies and government authorities were working tirelessly to secure the children’s release. However, the prolonged captivity and lack of communication from the abductors have heightened fears among residents.
“As stakeholders, we exercised patience and trusted that the government and security forces were doing everything possible to rescue the children. But after three weeks, our concern continues to grow,” he said.
Despite their concerns, the stakeholders commended the efforts of the Federal Government and the Borno State Government in addressing security challenges in the region.
Askira praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to restoring peace across the country and also acknowledged Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for visiting the affected community shortly after the incident to console parents and residents.
The leaders further called on the Federal Government to strengthen security in Askira/Uba, noting that the local government shares a border with the Sambisa Forest, a known hideout for terrorist groups.
They urged authorities to establish a stronger security presence in the area, including fortified security formations, improved school protection measures, rapid-response units, forward operating bases and sustained patrol operations to prevent future attacks.
The stakeholders said enhanced security infrastructure is critical to safeguarding communities and ensuring that schools remain safe for children.
