The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has hailed the rescue of pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after spending 56 days in captivity, but urged the Federal Government not to relent until every Nigerian still held by kidnappers regains freedom.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement on Sunday, described the rescue as a victory worth celebrating, while reminding Nigerians that many families across the country are still waiting for their loved ones to return home.
He thanked God for preserving the lives of the rescued victims and commended President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), Amotekun Corps, local hunters and vigilantes for the successful operation.
“For the children who have returned, for the teachers reunited with their families and for parents whose tears have turned to joy, we give God all the glory,” Okoh said.
He also praised Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for standing by the affected families throughout the period of the abduction and for pledging rehabilitation support for the rescued victims.
While celebrating the breakthrough, the CAN president said many families in states such as Borno and Niger were still living in pain as their loved ones remained in the hands of kidnappers and terrorists.
“The rescue in Oyo should strengthen our determination to secure the freedom of every Nigerian still held by terrorists, bandits or other criminal groups. They must know they have not been forgotten,” he stated.
Okoh stressed that every Nigerian life is precious, urging authorities to intensify efforts to secure the release of all remaining captives.
He also called on governments, churches and humanitarian organisations to provide counselling, medical care and emotional support for the rescued children and teachers to help them recover from the trauma of captivity.
According to him, schools must once again become safe places for learning and not centres of fear.
CAN reaffirmed its commitment to praying for the safe return of all kidnapped Nigerians and the protection of security personnel battling criminal elements across the country.
