The wife of the Chairman of Nkanu East Local Government Council and wife of the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Enugu State Chapter, Mrs. Rita Edeh, has strongly condemned the recent abduction of schoolchildren in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, describing the incident as a tragic assault on the innocence of children and a disturbing reflection of the growing insecurity confronting the nation.
Reacting to reports of the kidnapping, Mrs. Edeh expressed deep concern over the plight of the affected children and their families, noting that no child should be subjected to fear, trauma, or separation from the safety and comfort of home.
According to her, the abduction of innocent children is not only an attack on families but also a direct threat to education, community peace, and the future of Nigeria.
Mrs. Edeh lamented that while many families across the country continue with their daily lives, several innocent children remain in captivity, uncertain of their fate and deprived of the care, protection, and affection they deserve.
She described the situation as heartbreaking, especially considering that some of the victims are of tender ages and should ordinarily be in school or under the loving care of their parents rather than facing the horrors of captivity.
The Nkanu East First Lady further decried the persistent wave of kidnappings, banditry, terrorism, and other violent crimes across different parts of the country, stressing that insecurity has become one of the greatest challenges threatening national unity, development, and the wellbeing of citizens.
Mrs. Edeh called on security agencies and relevant government authorities to intensify efforts toward securing the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted children while ensuring that perpetrators of such heinous crimes are identified, arrested, and brought to justice.
She also urged community leaders, religious organizations, women groups, civil society organizations, and well-meaning Nigerians to unite in prayer in support of affected families and continue advocating for stronger measures to protect children and vulnerable members of society.
Expressing solidarity with the families of the abducted children, Mrs. Edeh offered prayers for their safe return and comfort for their loved ones during the difficult period.
"Every child deserves love, protection, education, and the opportunity to grow in a safe environment. Our children should never become victims of violence or criminality. As a mother, my heart goes out to the affected families, and I join millions of Nigerians in praying for the safe rescue of these innocent children," she said.
She further called on Nigerians to remain vigilant, support security efforts, and continue to pray for peace and stability across the country.
Mrs. Edeh emphasized that the protection of children must remain a collective responsibility, adding that a nation that safeguards its children safeguards its future.
She concluded by urging Nigerians not to lose hope despite the prevailing security challenges, expressing confidence that through collective action, effective leadership, and sustained commitment to justice, the country would overcome the forces of terror and insecurity.
"Let us continue to stand together for our children, our communities, and our nation. Their safety matters. Their future matters. Nigeria must remain a place where every child can dream, learn, and thrive without fear," she stated.
