The apex Igbo socio-political organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, on Sunday demanded the immediate rescue of abducted schoolnstudents and teachers in Oyo State.
Gunmen had on May 15. abducted seven teachers and over 40 students in three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The National Publicity Secretary Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, made the call in statement in Enugu.
Chukwu noted that the killing of teachers during and after the attack had further heightened the gravity of this tragic incident.
He condemned the abduction of the innocent students and teachers by the criminals.
“The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation unequivocally condemns this barbaric and inhuman act, which represents a direct assault on innocent children, education, and the collective future of our nation.
“The sanctity of human life is sacred and must never be subjected to the cruelty of criminals,” he quoted President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator Azuta Mbata.
“The President-General insists that the abduction of children from their schools, is an attack on the hopes of families and the future of our nation.
” No society can make meaningful progress when its children live in fear and its schools become targets of violence.
“The immediate rescue of these innocent children and their teachers must be treated as a national priority.
“We call on the Federal Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to intensify efforts to ensure the immediate and safe release of all the victims and bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.
“The protection of our children and educational institutions must remain a matter of urgent national concern,” the statement read.
(Ripples)