The Deputy Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdullahi Musa Askira, has made a passionate appeal for the immediate release of 42 schoolchildren who were taken captive by suspected Boko Haram or ISWAP militants in the Askira/Uba Local Government Area. He spoke on behalf of local leaders, political figures, and residents during a press briefing in Maiduguri on a Saturday, nearly three weeks after the abduction occurred.
The children, who were students of Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School, were reportedly seized on May 15, 2026. Askira described the incident as a devastating blow to education and humanity, expressing deep concern over the prolonged captivity and the anguish faced by the families. He stated that the community initially remained quiet, trusting that security agencies would handle the situation, but the extended wait has intensified fears and anxiety among parents and locals.
Askira praised President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for their swift response, particularly highlighting Governor Zulum’s visit to comfort the affected families shortly after the kidnapping. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian military, police, Department of State Services, and the Civilian Joint Task Force in counterinsurgency operations. However, he urged them to ramp up efforts to secure the children’s freedom, calling for the use of all available intelligence and strategies—both kinetic and non-kinetic.
The deputy speaker emphasized that the children are innocent and should not be treated as combatants. He appealed to the captors to release them unconditionally, out of fear of God. Additionally, the stakeholders called for enhanced security measures in Askira/Uba due to its proximity to the Sambisa Forest, recommending new security posts, rapid response units, better school protection, and sustained military patrols. Askira assured families that efforts are ongoing and urged them to remain hopeful.