A non-governmental organization, the Amazing Grace Children Rights Foundation (AGCRF), has described the incessant attacks on schools and the kidnapping of students as a dangerous trend mortgaging the country’s future.
Speaking ahead of the annual Children’s Day celebration on Wednesday, May 27, the Founder/Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Mrs Grace Omoye Adeyemi, noted with concern that over 100 students had been kidnapped in this month alone, questioning why governments at all levels have yet to secure their release.
She highlighted recent tragic incidents, including the May 15 abduction of 47 students and teachers from nursery, primary, and secondary schools in the Oriire Local Council of Oyo State, a similar mass abduction of roughly 50 students in Borno State around the same period, and separate school attacks in Katsina and Zamfara states that resulted in the capture of numerous students and educators.
In a statement titled “Nigeria’s Future in Captivity,” Mrs. Adeyemi emphasized that the implications of this ugly trend extend far beyond the immediate trauma inflicted on the abducted children, their families, and teachers. She warned that the recurring violence is already instilling deep fear in Nigerian children and educators, stripping them of the peace of mind required to attend school.
She said, “The government should not wait until the children of elites and notable public figures are kidnapped before providing adequate security in all schools and aggressively pursuing the release of those in captivity. As a mother, I am particularly pained to think of what these innocent children are passing through at the hands of these mindless beasts.”
However, the AGCRF is calling on the government to use the occasion of this year’s Children’s Day to decisively address the crisis, secure the immediate release of the captive children, and reassure the nation that it has not been overwhelmed by the insecurity threatening the country’s corporate existence.
Mrs. Adeyemi also urged corporate organizations, Parents/Teachers Associations (PTAs), and civil society to join hands in protecting Nigerian schools to safeguard the nation’s future.
Reflecting on the foundation’s annual “Be Bold” programme held every May 27 to commemorate Children’s Day, Mrs Adeyemi confirmed that the event will still go ahead in Lagos this Wednesday. This year, the platform will be dedicated to praying for the kidnapped children, empowering young people to speak out against all forms of abuse, and reassuring them of a better tomorrow despite their current challenges.
“There are many children out there who feel hopeless because of the economic status of their parents; we step in to assist them and give them hope,” she added. “We mentor them, provide a shoulder to lean on, and empower them to speak out against molestation and harassment. The positive impact we see in their lives has been our major motivation on this journey.”
She disclosed that internationally renowned coach, Precious Ifeanyichukwu, will serve as the keynote speaker for this year’s event.
