Parents of the 78 pupils and students abducted by Boko Haram terrorists in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State have turned to prayers and other spiritual activities, seeking divine intervention for the safe return of their children who have remained in captivity for weeks.
The abducted children comprise 42 pupils of Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School and 36 students of Lassa Government Day Secondary School, all kidnapped during separate attacks by insurgents in Askira-Uba Local Government Area.
The distraught parents said they have continued to place their hope in God as efforts to secure the release of the children have yet to yield the desired result.
Many of them, it was gathered, have intensified prayers in churches, mosques and family gatherings, asking for divine protection and the safe return of the victims.
Some of the parents described the prolonged captivity of their children as traumatic, saying they live in constant fear and uncertainty over their fate.
They appealed to the federal government, the military and other security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and ensure the children are reunited with their families without further delay.
The parents also urged religious leaders and Nigerians to continue praying for the victims, insisting that faith remains their greatest source of strength while they await positive news.
The abduction has heightened anxiety in Askira-Uba and surrounding communities, with residents expressing concern over the continued attacks on schools and the safety of children in parts of Borno State affected by insurgency.