By Ighomuaye Lucky. O
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Edo State Chapter, has strongly condemned the abduction of school pupils and their teachers in Oyo State, describing the incident as a disturbing development that has plunged families, communities, and concerned Nigerians into deep distress.
In a statement signed by its chairperson, Comrade Habiba Aniekan Sam, the association said that, as mothers, journalists, and advocates for the protection of women and children, they share in the pain, anxiety, and uncertainty being experienced by the parents, guardians, and loved ones of the victims.
She said schools are meant to serve as safe havens for learning, personal development, and the nurturing of future leaders, adding that the continued captivity of innocent children and dedicated educators is unacceptable and poses a serious threat to the nation’s educational system and its collective future.
Comrade Sam stated that, in view of this, the association is calling on the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, and relevant security agencies to deploy all available resources, intelligence, and strategic measures needed to ensure the immediate, safe, and unconditional release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
Sam added that they are also demanding that the safety and wellbeing of our children must remain a paramount national priority, security agencies should intensify ongoing rescue efforts through coordinated, proactive, and sustained operations aimed at bringing the victims home safely and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.
Moreso, that the traditional institutions, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and community stakeholders must unite in advocacy, support collective action for the safe return of the victims, while providing comfort and solidarity to the affected families during this difficult period.
According to the statement “We also appeal to the abductors to embrace reason, compassion, and humanity by releasing the children and their teachers unharmed.
“No grievance, demand, or objective can justify the trauma and suffering being inflicted on innocent pupils, educators, and their families.
“NAWOJ Edo remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the protection of children, the security of educational institutions, and the fundamental right of every child to learn in a safe environment.
“Our position is clear and unwavering: the abducted pupils and teachers must be released immediately and unconditionally”
