The Accord party has strongly condemned the recent abduction of over 250 schoolchildren in Kaduna State.
In a statement signed by Hon Joseph Omorogbe, its National Publicity Secretary, the party described the act as outrageous, barbaric, despicable, and sadism of the worst order.
The party demanded the immediate release of the abducted children and an end to the reign of terror in the country. It urged security agents to be proactive in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
Arogidigba Global Journal reported that 285 schoolchildren were abducted at LEA Primary and Junior Secondary School, Kuriga, in Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State, on Thursday.
The party also called for the release of all citizens held captive by terrorists, insurgents, bandits, and kidnappers across the country.
“This reign of terror must stop forthwith. The essence of government is to protect lives and property, in line with Section 14(2)b, which provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,” the statement added.
“Sadly, this clear provision of the constitution has been observed in breach by successive governments that have tackled insecurity with a kid’s glove in their quest for power and personal aggrandizement.
“Today, Nigeria has turned into a killing field, with kidnappers on the rampage. The perpetrators of these heinous crimes and their sponsors must be apprehended to face justice.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with these traumatized schoolchildren and their families as we pray to God for their safe return.
“The nation needs compassionate leaders who feel the pulse and pains of the citizenry and take proactive measures to safeguard their interests and well-being.
“Security agents should sit up and take their constitutional duties seriously. There must be synergy among various security services on intelligence gathering, sharing, and execution to avert these daily tragedies that have afflicted the nation for years as if there is no government in place.
“Accord urges the federal government to adequately equip and motivate the military and paramilitary agencies in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. It is a fight we must win to make Nigeria safe again.
“As the world celebrates this year’s International Women’s Day on March 8, with the theme #InspireInclusion, 300 women recently abducted by Boko Haram in Borno State while fetching firewood in the bush are still in captivity.
“As a mass movement, Accord shares the pain of these helpless women and urges security agents to effect their unconditional release. Our great party is gender-friendly and will continue to inspire understanding and appreciation for women’s inclusion in party and national positions.
“This is the only way Nigerian women will experience a profound sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment in the quest for a better, greater, more equitable, and prosperous nation.
“In one Accord, we shall overcome all obstacles and foster sustainable democracy in Nigeria.”