The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has applauded the authorities over the rescue of pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from Oriire local government area of Oyo State.
It urged the federal government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of Nigerians still held by terrorists and bandits.
In a statement yesterday, CAN president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, thanked God for the safe return of the victims after 56 days in captivity, saying the rescue had transformed weeks of anxiety into joy for their families.
“For the children who have returned, for the teachers who have been reunited with their families, and for parents whose tears have given way to joy, this is a day of profound gratitude. We give God all the glory for preserving their lives through an ordeal no child or teacher should ever experience,” he said.
The Christian body commended President Bola Tinubu, the national security adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun Corps), local hunters, vigilantes and all others involved in the operation.
CAN said the successful operation demonstrated that patience, credible intelligence and effective collaboration among security agencies remain critical to defeating criminal groups and rescuing victims without unnecessary loss of life.
The association also praised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for standing by the affected families throughout the ordeal and applauded the state government’s commitment to providing rehabilitation and support for the rescued children and the teachers.
While celebrating the successful operation, CAN cautioned Nigerians against forgetting the many families across the country who are still waiting for the return of loved ones held by terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups.
Okoh noted that although parents in Oriire could finally embrace their children again, many families in states such as Borno, Niger and other parts of the country continue to live in uncertainty.
“Their pain is no less real because it attracts fewer headlines. Their tears are no less bitter because the cameras have moved elsewhere,” he stated.
The association stressed that every Nigerian life is precious and urged the government to sustain efforts to secure the release of all remaining captives, irrespective of where they are being held.
CAN called on governments at all levels, faith-based organisations and humanitarian agencies to provide comprehensive medical, psychological and emotional support for the rescued victims, noting that recovery from the trauma of abduction extends beyond physical freedom.
“Our schools must once again become places of learning, not places of fear. No parent should have to choose between giving a child an education and keeping that child alive,” the statement said.
The association urged Nigerians to continue praying for security personnel and supporting lawful efforts to end kidnapping and insecurity across the country.
