Kagara abduction an abuse of child’s rights – UNICEF

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on Wednesday described the abduction of students of Government Science College, Kagara, Niger State, as an abuse of child’s rights.

In a statement issued by its Communication Specialist, Sam Kaalu, UNICEF demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the students.

Although the agency acknowledged the efforts being made by the Nigerian government to rescue the students, it expressed concerned about the violent attack and safety of the abducted victims.

The statement read: “UNICEF condemns in the strongest possible terms any attack on a school and calls for the immediate and unconditional release of any children who may be missing, and their safe return to their families.

READ ALSO: SERAP charges Nigerian govt to locate, rescue abducted Kagara students

“UNICEF is deeply concerned about these reported acts of violence. Attacks on schools are a violation of children’s rights. Children should feel safe at home and at school at all times – and parents should not need to worry for the safety of their children when they send them off to school in the morning.

“We acknowledge the efforts being taken by the Government of Nigeria for the safe return of any missing children.”

Armed bandits had on Wednesday morning abducted 27 students and three staff from the college.

Join the conversation

Opinions

Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism

Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.

As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.

Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.

Donate Now