HURIWA Seeks Release Of Abducted Borno Schoolchildren

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to support the efforts to secure the release of about 80 schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Borno State.

The association made the call yesterday, in a statement signed by its national coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko.

He said the victims were abducted in separate incidents in Mussa and Lassa communities in Askira/Uba local government area of Borno State between May and June 2026.

HURIWA said between 40 and 44 children were reportedly taken in the first incident, although the exact number remained disputed, while 36 pupils and a teacher were reportedly abducted in the second.

The association called on the federal government to strengthen coordination among security agencies and sustain efforts to secure the release of those still in captivity.

It also urged the authorities to provide affected families with regular updates on rescue efforts while protecting information that could compromise security operations.

HURIWA further called for a review of the Safe School Initiative, introduced following the 2014 abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok, Borno State.

It said the review should examine measures to improve intelligence gathering, early-warning systems, emergency response and coordination among security agencies to protect schools and surrounding communities.

The association also called for improved security arrangements around vulnerable schools to reduce the risk of further abductions.

HURIWA said efforts to secure the release of the affected pupils and teachers should continue, with their families kept informed of developments.