Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and child rights advocates have called for stronger measures to address insecurity and improve the protection of children and other vulnerable persons across the country.
The groups made the call at a news conference in Abuja amid concerns over recent cases of abductions and attacks in parts of the country.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Mrs Mabel Ade, Coordinator of Civil Society for Local Development and Acceleration, said the incidents underscored the need for enhanced efforts to safeguard lives and property.
According to her, the abductions have subjected affected families and communities to fear, uncertainty and emotional distress.
“These are human beings, children, mothers and fathers whose fundamental rights to life, dignity, safety and freedom are being violated.
“Children who should be in classrooms are now in captivity, while families who should live in peace are trapped in fear and uncertainty,” she said.
Ade described the incidents as a violation of constitutional guarantees and Nigeria’s commitments under international human rights instruments, particularly those relating to the protection of children from violence, exploitation and abuse.
She said the situation required a coordinated response involving government institutions, security agencies, communities, development partners and civil society organizations.
“The ongoing insecurity reflects serious gaps in protection systems and raises urgent questions about the effectiveness of current strategies.
“The continued captivity of abducted children and other citizens is unacceptable under any circumstance,” she said.
Ade called for the safe rescue of all abducted children, teachers and other victims, as well as the implementation of effective Safe School measures across the country.
She also urged authorities to adopt a decisive, transparent and coordinated security response to curb kidnappings and attacks nationwide.
Also speaking, Mrs Eunice Odeghe, Deputy Coordinator of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter of the Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labor (NACTAL), expressed solidarity with families affected by the incidents.
Odeghe encouraged them to remain hopeful, assuring them that civil society groups would continue to advocate for the safe return of abducted children and other victims.
“Those concerned about the victims should know that they are not alone. We are together in this struggle.
“As mothers, sisters and brothers, we stand with the affected families and urge government to do all within its powers to secure the release of the children and other victims,” she said.
She expressed confidence in the country’s ability to overcome the security challenges and ensure the safe return of those in captivity. (NAN)
