By Akinwale Kasali
Ten years after the then unprecedented abduction of young girls from a Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State, by Boko Haram elements, the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, is expressing its despair and disappointment that about 90 of the girls are still in the hands of their abductors.
The Association is angry that the girls, popularly known as Chibok Girls, all Christians, are not only suffering and traumatized in the custody of terrorists, but have been forced to convert to the Islamic religion.
It has, therefore, urged the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration not to rest on its oars in securing the release of the remaining Chibok Girls who have been in tlcaptivity of for 10 years.
CAN lamented the pain and anguish of the parents of the abducted girls and the disappearing hope of seeing their children again.
The religious body said that it was not only a matter of national importance, but also a test of commitment to upholding the rights and safety of Nigerian citizens.
A statement by CAN’s National Director for Education, Youth and Women Development, Rev. Ozumba Nicodemus in Abuja, the Association said the trauma experienced by the remaining abducted girls from is unimaginable.
“The pain and anguish felt by their parents, who have endured sleepless nights filled with hopelessness, are deeply felt by CAN.
“We cannot remain silent while their children remain in captivity, yearning for freedom and reunion with their families,” it said.
CAN urged government to intensify efforts and take decisive action to rescue the remaining children still held hostage.
“It is our duty as a nation to ensure their safe return, and to bring an end to the anguish and suffering endured by these innocent young girls and their families.
“We call on the government to mobilise all available resources, engage relevant security agencies, and collaborate with international partners to secure the release of the remaining Chibok girls,” It said.
The religious body also implored the international community, humanitarian organisations, and well-meaning individuals to join hands in advocating for the release of the Chibok girls.
“Together, we can amplify our voices and exert greater pressure on the abductors to bring an end to this prolonged ordeal.
“CAN remains resolute in its commitment to seeking justice and ensuring the safe return of the Chibok girls.
“We will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders and utilise all available avenues to shed light on their plight and secure their release.
“We urge all Nigerians to stand united, to lend their voices and to demand immediate action from the government.
“Let us show our unwavering support for the families of the Chibok girls and demonstrate our collective determination to bring them back home,” It added.
It would be recalled that the Girls were abducted by suspected Boko Haram insurgents during the Government of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan prior to the 2015 Presidential Election.
A number of the girls have been married off to their abductors and forced into motherhood. 21 of the freed girls came back, according to reports, with 34 children.
