The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Borno State chapter has called on the federal and state authorities to immediately rescue 78 schoolchildren and other victims who have spent more than 100 days in captivity across the state.
CAN Chairman John Bakeni made the appeal during a prayer session held on Sunday to mark the association’s 50th anniversary in Maiduguri. “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.
“These kids have spent over 100 days in captivity. You can imagine the pain, agony and trauma their parents are going through,” Bakeni added. “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.”
The abductions were carried out by suspected Boko Haram militants. On 16 May, 42 students and pupils were taken from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira‑Uba Local Government Area. On 29 June, 36 students and one teacher were abducted from Government Day Secondary School in Lassa, the same local government area. The two incidents bring the total number of missing schoolchildren to 78.
Bakeni said CAN will continue to pray for peace and the safe release of those in captivity, despite the ongoing security challenges confronting Borno State.
<small>Source: Daily Post Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
