Stakeholders from Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State have made an emotional appeal to the abductors of 42 schoolchildren, urging them to release the victims without conditions after spending more than three weeks in captivity.
Speaking on behalf of community leaders, the Deputy Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdullahi Askira, described the prolonged detention of the children as heartbreaking, saying innocent pupils should never be caught in the middle of conflict or violence.
According to him, the continued captivity of the children has left families devastated and communities overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty.
“These are children, not soldiers or politicians. They are the future of Borno and Nigeria. We urge you to fear Almighty God and release them unconditionally,” Askira pleaded.
The lawmaker said stakeholders had remained patient since the abduction, believing that security agencies were making every effort to secure the children’s freedom.
However, he admitted that the long wait has increased anxiety among parents and residents.
“We have remained patient and silent for the past three weeks, believing the government and security forces were doing everything possible. But that patience has now turned into deep worry,” he said.
Askira also commended President Bola Tinubu and Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for their efforts in addressing insecurity and supporting affected families.
“We commend President Tinubu for his commitment to restoring peace and Governor Zulum for standing with the families during this difficult period,” he added.
Beyond the appeal for the children’s release, the stakeholders called for stronger security measures in Askira/Uba, noting that the area’s proximity to the Sambisa Forest makes it highly vulnerable to attacks.
They urged authorities to establish more security formations, strengthen school protection and deploy rapid-response units to prevent future incidents.
The appeal follows the abduction of 42 pupils and students on May 16, when suspected Boko Haram terrorists attacked Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira/Uba Local Government Area.
More than three weeks later, the children remain in captivity, sparking renewed calls for urgent action to secure their release.
