By Ere-ebi Agedah Imisi
The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN has welcomed the rescue of pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, saying the nation’s celebration will only be complete when every Nigerian still held by kidnappers regains freedom.
The position was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, following the successful rescue of the victims after 56 days in captivity.
Describing the development as a source of relief for the affected families and Nigerians who closely followed the incident, Okoh said the rescue was a reminder of the need to sustain efforts to secure the release of all persons still in captivity across the country.
“Our celebration will not be complete until every captive returns home and every Nigerian can live, learn, work and worship without fear,” he said.
The CAN President thanked God for preserving the lives of the rescued pupils and teachers, noting that no child or educator should have to endure the trauma of abduction.
“Today is a day of gratitude as the rescued children and teachers have been reunited with their families. We thank God for protecting their lives through a difficult experience that no child or teacher should ever face,” he stated.
While celebrating the successful operation, CAN observed that many families, particularly in states such as Borno and Niger, are still awaiting the safe return of their loved ones.
The association commended President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, DSS, the Amotekun Corps, local hunters and vigilantes for their coordinated efforts in securing the victims’ release.
According to CAN, the operation demonstrated the value of intelligence-driven security strategies, patience and effective collaboration among security agencies.
The association also praised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for standing by the affected families throughout the 56-day ordeal and welcomed the state government’s commitment to providing rehabilitation and psychosocial support for the rescued pupils and teachers.
CAN, however, urged Nigerians not to forget those who remain in the hands of criminal groups, stressing that every Nigerian life deserves equal protection regardless of ethnicity, religion or geographical location.
“Our compassion must never become selective, and our concern must never depend on geography, ethnicity or religion,” the statement added.
The association further appealed to citizens to continue praying for the safe return of all captives, support lawful security operations and stand in solidarity with families whose loved ones are still missing.
