The Abia State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has condemned the kidnapping and prolonged captivity of schoolchildren in Oyo State, describing the development as a disturbing reflection of the growing insecurity facing the country.
In a statement issued by its Chairperson, Ambassador Norah Okafor, the association expressed concern over the plight of the children, who have reportedly remained in captivity for more than a week after being abducted while pursuing their education.
NAWOJ said the continued detention of the pupils was unacceptable and called on government authorities and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure their immediate release.
NAWOJ logo
The association noted that the children had committed no offence other than attending school in search of a better future, stressing that their ordeal highlights the vulnerability of ordinary Nigerians amid worsening security challenges.
The organisation lamented what it described as a troubling situation in which children of law-abiding citizens are exposed to danger despite their parents fulfilling civic obligations, including the payment of taxes.
“It is deeply troubling that while many leaders sleep comfortably, with their own children secure at home and abroad, the children of ordinary Nigerians whose parents faithfully pay taxes are left to suffer the consequences of the insecurity that continues to plague our nation.
“We therefore call on all female journalists, bankers, professionals, and women from all walks of life to rise in defence of these innocent girls and boys who have been held captive in a forest through no fault of their own”, the statement said.
NAWOJ also expressed outrage over reports that a teacher was beheaded during the incident, warning that the apparent normalisation of violence and loss of life poses a grave threat to society.
“Even more disturbing is the reported beheading of a teacher, yet life appears to have continued as though the sanctity of human life no longer matters in our society,” the association stated.
The Association while calling for urgent intervention, urged security agencies to deploy all available resources to ensure the safe rescue of the children, with particular attention to the welfare of the girls among them.
NAWOJ further warned that girls held in captivity could face severe physical and psychological trauma, underscoring the need for swift action.
“We raise our voices in unison to say ‘No’ to this growing menace and call on the government and security agencies to deploy every available resource toward the immediate rescue and release of these children.
Enough is enough”, the statement read.
As part of efforts to demonstrate solidarity with the victims and their families, the Association encouraged female journalists across Abia State to wear a touch of red until the children regain their freedom.
