CITAD Condemns Abduction of School Children in Kaduna, Calls for Action
By Mustapha Salisu
The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has strongly condemned the abduction of over 280 pupils and teachers from LEA Primary School and Government Secondary School Kuriga, Kaduna State.
The incident, which occurred on March 7, 2024, has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, reigniting concerns about the safety and security of educational institutions in Nigeria.
According to reports, armed bandits on motorcycles descended upon the school premises in Kuriga, located along the Kaduna Birnin-Gwari Road, executing a meticulously planned operation that saw scores of innocent children and educators snatched from their classrooms.
In a press release, YZ Ya’u, the Executive Director of CITAD, vehemently denounced the heinous act, labeling it as barbaric and unacceptable. “The safety and well-being of children and educators are paramount to educational development and the livelihood of any community and the country in general. Any threat to schools and pupils’ security is therefore unacceptable and condemnable,” stated Ya’u.
The abduction has sparked widespread outrage and calls for immediate action from both the Kaduna State Government and the Federal Government. CITAD has urged authorities to take urgent steps to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers to their families.
“Every child has the right to education in a safe and secure environment, free from the fear of violence and abduction. The abduction of these innocent students and teachers is a direct attack on our educational system and a violation of their fundamental rights,” Ya’u emphasized.
The incident has brought out the vulnerability of educational institutions in Nigeria to attacks by criminal elements, posing a significant threat to the country’s educational landscape.
“We demand that all measures be taken to prevent such incidents from reoccurring,” Ya’u asserted.
As efforts continue to secure the release of the abducted individuals, CITAD has called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the abducted students and teachers during this difficult time. We stand in solidarity with the affected community and reiterate our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and protection of our children and educators,” concluded Ya’u.
