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By John Azu
The apex Igbo socio-cultural.organisatiin, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has demanded an urgent rescue of abducted 39 pupils and seven teachers of schools in Oyo State.
In a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Dr Ezechi Chukwu on Monday, the association described the incident at Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State as that of profound shock.
The statement quotes the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Senator Azuta Mbata as noting that the killing of teachers during and after the attack has further heightened the gravity of the tragic incident.
“The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization unequivocally condemns this barbaric and inhuman act, which represents a direct assault on innocent children, education, and the collective future of our nation,” the statement reads.
Mbata continued: “The sanctity of human life is sacred and must never be subjected to the cruelty of criminals. The abduction of children from their schools is an attack on the hopes of families and the future of our nation. No society can make meaningful progress when its children live in fear and its schools become targets of violence. The immediate rescue of these innocent children and their teachers must be treated as a national priority.”
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide extends its heartfelt solidarity to the affected families and the Government and people of Oyo State. We call on the Federal Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to intensify efforts to ensure the immediate and safe release of all the victims and bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.
“The protection of our children and educational institutions must remain a matter of urgent national concern.”