Borno deputy speaker, stakeholders demand rescue of 42 abducted schoolchildren
Borno Deputy Speaker Appeals for Release of Abducted Schoolchildren
Maiduguri, Nigeria — Abdullahi Musa Askira, Deputy Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, has urged for the immediate rescue of 42 schoolchildren kidnapped by suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents in the Askira/Uba Local Government Area.
Addressing reporters on Saturday in Maiduguri, Askira spoke on behalf of community leaders, political stakeholders, and residents of Askira/Uba. Nearly three weeks have passed since the pupils were reportedly abducted from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School on May 15, 2026.
“This tragic incident represents an attack on education and humanity,” Askira said, voicing concern over the ongoing captivity of the children and the distress experienced by their families.
He noted that community leaders had initially chosen not to speak publicly, trusting that security agencies were actively working to secure the children’s release. However, the extended duration of the children’s captivity has increased anxiety among parents and community members.
“Three weeks is an agonizingly long time for young children to remain in captivity, far from the protection of their families,” he added.
Askira expressed appreciation for the responses from President Bola Tinubu and Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, particularly acknowledging Zulum’s visit to console affected families soon after the abduction. He also commended the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and other security agencies involved in counterinsurgency operations in the region.
The Deputy Speaker urged authorities to enhance their efforts to secure the release of the abducted children. “We appeal to all relevant authorities to utilize every available strategy necessary for the immediate and safe rescue of these children. Every moment they remain in captivity is one too many,” he stated.
The stakeholders also advocated for stronger security measures in Askira/Uba, highlighting the area’s proximity to the Sambisa Forest and its susceptibility to insurgent attacks. They proposed the establishment of additional security units, rapid response teams, and improved protective measures for educational institutions.
Askira encouraged families of the abducted children to remain hopeful and assured them that efforts are underway to secure their safe return. “These are children, not combatants. They are the future of Borno and Nigeria. We urge those holding them captive to fear Almighty God and release them unconditionally,” he concluded.
