Demands urgent action as Oyo, Borno school kidnappings spark fresh fears
By Queen Kunde
The Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE) has called on the Federal Government and security agencies to step up efforts to rescue students and teachers abducted in separate attacks on schools in Oyo and Borno states.
The association said the continued targeting of schools by terrorists and bandits is a serious threat to Nigeria’s future and urged authorities to leave no stone unturned until all those in captivity are safely reunited with their families.
In a statement issued by its Chairman, Sola Akingboye, ACOE expressed sympathy with the parents, teachers and management of the affected schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State and Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, in Borno State.
The group described the pain being experienced by the families as heartbreaking, saying no parent should have to send a child to school and be left waiting in fear and uncertainty.
ACOE said the attacks on schoolchildren, including students reportedly sitting for their NECO examinations in Borno, highlight the urgent need to strengthen security around schools across the country.
The association urged the Federal Government to intensify intelligence gathering, surveillance and rescue operations to secure the release of all abducted students, teachers and other Nigerians being held by terrorists.
“We stand in total solidarity with the affected families and school communities during this painful period,” Akingboye said.
He added that security agencies must act swiftly to restore public confidence in the safety of schools and ensure that every child can pursue education without fear.
ACOE also remembered other victims of banditry and terrorism across the country, pledging that the corporate online media would continue to advocate for justice, transparency and the protection of human lives.