In Nigeria, two recent mass kidnappings have shocked the nation, with hundreds of women and children abducted in separate incidents. The first occurred in Borno State, where about 200 people, mostly women collecting firewood, were kidnapped by suspected Boko Haram militants. In Kaduna State, over 100 students were abducted from their school by bandits.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has condemned these abductions and directed security agencies to rescue the victims. The United Nations and humanitarian organizations have also expressed concern over the escalating violence and insecurity in Nigeria, calling for urgent action to protect vulnerable populations.
Adding to the condemnation, the Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union, H.E. Moussa Mahamat Faki, strongly condemned the mass abduction of schoolchildren and women that took place on March 7, 2024, in the village of Kuriga, northwestern Nigeria. He called for the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted individuals, highlighting the pervasive threat of terrorism, violent extremism, and banditry in Nigeria and the wider region.
The United States Mission in Nigeria has echoed these sentiments, expressing condemnation of the kidnappings and pledging support for Nigeria’s efforts to secure the release of the abducted individuals. The international community is urged to stand with Nigeria in its fight against terrorism and to ensure the safety and security of all its citizens.
This mass abduction marks the largest such incident since the kidnapping of the Chibok girls , raising fears of a resurgence in terror activities. It underscores the need for continued vigilance and collective action to address the root causes of terrorism and protect the most vulnerable members of society.
