Reps demand immediate rescue of 116 schoolchildren, other Borno abductees

The House of Representatives has urgently demanded the safe release of 116 schoolchildren and other victims abducted in Borno State. This call for action was prompted by a motion of urgent public importance introduced by Rep. Midala Balami, who highlighted the ongoing captivity of these individuals. Among those still held captive are 44 schoolchildren abducted from Mussa, along with 36 others in the same area and along the Buratai–Maiduguri Road.

Additionally, 36 students and two teachers were taken in Lassa Ward, Askira-Uba Local Government Area. The rep pointed out that the Mussa schoolchildren have been held captive for over 138 days, while those from Lassa have endured captivity for more than 70 days. Other victims along the Buratai–Maiduguri Road have been detained for more than 160 days.

Balami emphasized that this prolonged captivity has caused significant emotional distress, uncertainty, and fear among the victims' families and surrounding communities. In response to these concerns, the House urged security agencies to intensify search and rescue efforts, improve coordination, and maintain a sustained operation until all victims are safely freed.

They also called for enhanced intelligence gathering, information sharing, increased patrols, and the implementation of security checkpoints in vulnerable areas such as Mussa, Lassa, and along the Buratai–Maiduguri Road. Furthermore, Reps called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to provide necessary relief materials, medical, and psychological support to the affected families and communities.