42 Borno Schoolchildren Abducted: Families Cry Out Over 2 Weeks of Silence
Families of 42 pupils taken from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State say they are still waiting for meaningful intervention more than two weeks after suspected Boko Haram insurgents abducted the children. Many of the pupils are reportedly between two and five years old, raising concerns about their safety, wellbeing, and vulnerability in captivity.
As anxiety grows among affected families, child protection advocates are calling for urgent action to secure the children’s release. Parents say the prolonged uncertainty has caused emotional distress and deepened fears about the condition of the children.
The concerns come as efforts continue to rescue pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15. Following the Oyo incident, the Federal Government announced measures to strengthen rescue operations and improve security. However, community leaders and civil society groups in Borno are urging authorities to demonstrate the same level of urgency in responding to the plight of children abducted in the North-East.
From a safeguarding perspective, prolonged captivity places children at significant risk. Beyond the immediate threats to their safety, separation from family members can affect their emotional and psychological wellbeing. In addition, extended disruptions to education can have lasting consequences for their development and future opportunities.
Meanwhile, protests in Oyo and neighbouring Ogun State have intensified calls for stronger protection for children and schools. Demonstrators urged authorities to prioritise the safe return of abducted pupils and teachers while taking concrete steps to prevent similar incidents.
Child rights advocates maintain that every child deserves equal protection, regardless of location. They are calling on governments, security agencies, and communities to work together to secure the release of the affected children and ensure that schools remain safe places for learning and growth.
