By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Child Protection Network Nigeria (CPNN) alongside a United Coalition of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) have expressed concern over the delay in the release of the 47 victims of Yawota, Esinele and Ahoro-Esinele communities kidnapped saga.
The groups while addressing a press conference in Ibadan on Thursday tasked the Ministries, Department and Agencies of both the Federal and State government on provision safe and supportive learning environment.
Theh said the charge was in line with the request of the residents of the affected schools for the perimeter fencing of the vulnerable schools in the state.
The Oyo state Coordinator of the CPNN, Mrs Rosemary Odigbo in her presentation explained that every child has the right to education in an environment that is safe, secure, and conducive to learning.
She urged the government at all levels to intensify efforts to rescuing the abducted students and teachers.
She said, “We wish to emphasize that schools are sacred spaces. Under the Child Rights Law of Oyo State and the Child Rights Act of Nigeria, every child has the right to education in an environment that is safe, secure, and conducive to learning.
“When concerns about safety begin to affect children’s access to education, it becomes a matter that requires the collective attention and commitment of all stakeholders.
“We cannot allow such incidents to become accepted as part of everyday life. Every child deserves to learn without fear, and every teacher deserves to carry out their duties in safety and dignity.
“The emotional and psychological impact on the affected children, their families, fellow students, teachers, and communities cannot be overstated.
“We call on the Federal Government, the State Government, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to continue deploying every available resource and strategy towards securing the safe and speedy return of all students and teachers still in captivity.
“While appreciating the visits, concern, and assurances provided by Governor Seyi Makinde, and the Federal delegation, we encourage continued and strengthened collaboration among the military, the Police, the NSCDC, local security structures, and community stakeholders to support ongoing efforts toward a successful resolution.
“We further encourage the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion to begin putting the necessary structures in place to provide a safe and supportive environment for the children and teachers upon their return. Such arrangements will facilitate immediate care, psychosocial support, assessment, recovery, and appropriate reintegration with their families and communities,” she stressed.
The coordinator, therefore, assured the government and all stakeholders that their networks are strategically positioned and ready to collaborate in providing technical support, psychosocial care, rehabilitation services, child protection interventions, and reintegration support throughout the recovery process.
Odigbo added, “To the mothers, fathers, guardians, relatives, and loved ones of the affected children and teachers, we hear your concerns, share your hopes, and stand in solidarity with you during this difficult period.
“We will continue to lend our voices and support ongoing efforts aimed at ensuring the safe return of every child and teacher.”
Other state chapters of the associations, who participated in the press briefing, were Association of Orphanages and Homes Operators in Nigeria; Association for Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Nigeria; Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labour; Center for Support of Women in Unpaid and Informal Employment in Nigeria and Community Chest Council.
The Nation reports that, gunmen launched attacks on the two communities on May 15th, during which 47 students and teachers were kidnapped. The age range of the victims is between 2 to 15 years.
The incident has attracted the attention of the Non Governmental Oranisations and other intetrest groups both locally and Internationally.
