Northern Elders Forum Condemns Surge in School Abductions

The Northern Elders Forum has expressed deep concern over the escalating security crisis in the Northern region. It is saddened by the worsening state of security in the nation, highlighted by the alarming increase in school abductions.

The recent attack and mass abductions in Kuriga village, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have once again brought to the forefront the grave security challenges facing Northern Nigeria.

Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, the Director of Publicity and Advocacy, NEF, in a media chat with journalists while reacting to the recent school abductions, condemned the heinous act and expressed deep concern over the escalating wave of school abductions in the region.

He said, “This incident, where over 200 students and teachers were kidnapped from LEA Primary school, further underscores the fragile state of security in the nation.”

The NEF lamented that the abduction of schoolchildren has now become a common occurrence in Northern Nigeria, posing a serious threat to education in the region.

“These incidents not only traumatize the victims and their families but also undermine the educational system and the future of the nation,” the NEF said.

“It is clear that the current security situation is a matter of grave concern, and it is imperative that all stakeholders work together to find lasting solutions to these challenges,” he added.

The NEF emphasized the need for a collaborative effort between the government, security agencies, and local communities to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians.

“The continuous occurrence of kidnappings, killings, armed robberies, and violent attacks, not just in the rural areas but even in the federal capital, is a stark reminder of the pervasive insecurity that plagues the nation,” the NEF stated.

The NEF warned that this state of lawlessness is unacceptable and called for urgent action to restore security and peace in the affected areas.

“Government must see this as a strong stance reflecting the collective outrage and concern of Nigerians over the deteriorating security situation in the country,” the NEF urged.

“May the abducted students and teachers be safely reunited with their families, and may justice be served on those responsible for this heinous crime,” the NEF concluded.