Reps demand immediate rescue of 116 schoolchildren, other Borno abductees
The House of Representatives has called for enhanced security operations aimed at ensuring the immediate and safe release of 116 schoolchildren and other individuals abducted in Borno State.
This resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance introduced by Rep. Midala Balami, who highlighted the ongoing captivity of victims seized in Mussa, Lassa, and along the Buratai–Maiduguri Road.
Balami reported that 44 schoolchildren were kidnapped from Mussa on May 15, 2026, alongside 36 other individuals abducted in the same region. He also mentioned the seizure of 36 students and two teachers in Lassa Ward, located in the Askira-Uba Local Government Area.
According to Balami, the schoolchildren from Mussa have been held for more than 138 days, while the abductees from Lassa have been in captivity for over 70 days. Other victims kidnapped along the Buratai–Maiduguri Road remain unaccounted for after more than 160 days.
Balami emphasized that the prolonged captivity has caused significant emotional distress not only for the victims’ families but also for the surrounding communities. He urged prompt action to secure their release.
The House subsequently encouraged security agencies to intensify search-and-rescue operations and enhance intelligence gathering to locate the victims and apprehend those responsible for the abductions.
Additionally, lawmakers called for heightened security measures in the Buratai–Maiduguri Road region, Mussa, Lassa, and other vulnerable communities, recommending increased patrols, intelligence-led operations, and the establishment of security checkpoints.
They also urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to provide relief materials, as well as medical and psychological assistance to the affected families and communities.
