Abduction: CAN celebrates rescue of Oyo pupils, teachers

​By Philomina Attah

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed gratitude to God and security agencies for the safe rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after 56 days in captivity.

​In a statement signed on Sunday by its National President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association described the safe return of the victims as a day of profound gratitude for the affected families and the nation.

​Okoh commended President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Amotekun Corps, and local vigilantes for their roles in the successful operation.

​”The reports that the operation was guided by patience, credible intelligence, and a determination to protect innocent lives are reassuring and deserve recognition. Every successful rescue reminds us that when our security institutions work together with resolve and professionalism, hope can triumph over fear,” he said.
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The CAN President also applauded Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State for his steadfast support to the affected families and his administration’s commitment to rehabilitating the rescued victims.

​Okoh, however, noted that while the rescue in Oyo brought joy, it was difficult to celebrate fully without remembering other Nigerian families whose children were still held by terrorists and bandits in states like Borno and Niger.
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He emphasised that compassion must not be selective, urging the Federal Government and security forces to use the success in Oyo to strengthen their determination to free all remaining captives across the country.

​”Today, parents in Oriire will hold their children again after weeks of anxious waiting. We rejoice with them. But there are mothers and fathers in Borno, Niger, and other parts of our country who will still go to bed praying that the next knock on the door will bring news that their own children are coming home. Their pain is no less real because it attracts fewer headlines. Their tears are no less bitter because the cameras have moved elsewhere,” Okoh said.

​He further called on governments, faith communities, and humanitarian organisations to collaborate in providing necessary psychiatric counseling, medical care, and emotional support to the rescued pupils and teachers to aid their reintegration into society.

​The association reiterated that schools must be secured to remain places of learning rather than intimidation, stressing that no parent should have to choose between educating a child and keeping them alive.

​Okoh added that the national celebration against insecurity would only be complete when all captives are released and Nigerians can move freely without fear of abduction.

NAN