United Nations Children Fund UNICEF has urged for immediate action to ensure the safe return of the school children and staff abducted in Kuriga, Chikun Local government area of Kaduna State.
UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate in statement expresses deeply saddened and concerned by the reports of abduction of students in Kaduna State.
According to the statement, the alarming frequency of such incidents across the country signals a crisis that requires immediate and determined action from all levels of government and society.
It says Schools are supposed to be sanctuaries of learning and growth, not sites of fear and violence.
“This latest abduction, as any previously, is highly condemnable and part of a worrying trend of attacks on educational institutions in Nigeria, particularly in the northwest, where armed groups have intensified their campaign of violence and kidnappings.
“Just a day prior to this incident, the UN Resident Coordinator spoke about the abductions of large numbers of women, girls and boys by members of a non-state armed group in Borno state”
It also called on authorities to implement comprehensive measures to secure schools across Nigeria, stressing that, It was imperative that, the safety and security of students and educators are guaranteed.
“Our hearts go out to the families of the abducted students and staff, and we stand with them in this harrowing time, The right to education is fundamental and must be protected against any form of violence or intimidation. The children of Nigeria deserve to learn in peace.”
According to the statement, UNICEF is coordinating with local officials and providing assistance to the affected parents and families through psychological support services.
“The UN children’s agency is dedicated to collaborating with government entities, local communities, and various partners to tackle the fundamental issues leading to violence against children and to safeguard educational environments from threats and violence”