The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of Nigerians still being held by terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups.
CAN warned that the successful rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State should not overshadow the plight of thousands of other victims across the country.
It made the appeal yesterday while reacting to the rescue of pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after 56 days in captivity.
In a statement by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association expressed gratitude to God for the safe return of the victims, describing the development as a source of hope for their families and the nation.
“For the children who have returned, for the teachers who have been reunited with their families, and for parents whose tears have given way to joy, this is a day of profound gratitude,” Okoh said.
The Christian body commended President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Amotekun Corps, local hunters, vigilantes and all those involved in the operation for securing the victims’ freedom.
According to CAN, the rescue demonstrated that coordinated security operations driven by credible intelligence, patience and professionalism could deliver positive results and restore public confidence.
The association also praised Governor Seyi Makinde for standing by the affected families throughout the period of captivity and welcomed the state’s commitment to rehabilitate the rescued children and teachers.
Despite celebrating the successful operation, CAN stressed that many Nigerian families were still living with the pain and uncertainty of having loved ones in captivity.
Okoh noted that while parents in Oriire could now embrace their children again, families in Borno, Niger and several other states remained anxious, praying daily for the safe return of their loved ones.
“Their pain is no less real because it attracts fewer headlines. Their tears are no less bitter because the cameras have moved elsewhere.”
He urged the government to build on the momentum created by the Oyo rescue by redoubling efforts to free every Nigerian still in captivity, insisting that every child and every citizen deserved equal protection irrespective of religion, ethnicity or geographical location.
The CAN president also emphasised that the rescued victims would require sustained medical care, counselling and psychosocial support to recover from the trauma of their ordeal.
He called on governments at all levels, faith-based organisations and humanitarian agencies to collaborate in providing rehabilitation and emotional support for the children, teachers and their families.
Okoh further stressed the need to make schools safe again, saying no parent should have to choose between educating a child and keeping that child alive.
He urged Nigerians to continue praying for those still in captivity, support security personnel and remain united until every abducted Nigerian regains freedom.
“Our celebration will be complete not only when those in captivity are released but also when all Nigerians can move about freely without fear,” he added.
