VIDEO: Abuja mother, children stage protest over school abductions

A poignant scene unfolded in Abuja's Maitama district as a mother, accompanied by her three children dressed in school uniforms, staged a peaceful protest against the alarming surge in school abductions. Holding placards with messages demanding the rescue of kidnapped pupils, the family stood by the roadside, drawing widespread attention and reactions online.

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I am afraid of taking my children to school because of what is happening. I am scared it is not safe

The mother articulated the deep-seated fear plaguing parents across Nigeria. "I am afraid of taking my children to school because of what is happening. I am scared it is not safe," she stated, her voice resonating with the anxieties of many. She appealed for immediate government intervention to ensure the safety of educational institutions and secure the release of abducted students.

This symbolic protest occurs amidst a backdrop of recent security incidents, including the rescue of a former Minister of Power's sister and her twin sons, while schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno States remain in captivity. Social media users expressed solidarity and urged for concrete action, with one user commenting, "The sight of that mother and her children in uniforms, protesting for safety, is heartbreaking but necessary." Another suggested, "If we can protest with pupils from P6 to SS1, at least the government will deploy the Army and police."

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The sight of that mother and her children in uniforms, protesting for safety, is heartbreaking but necessary. No parent should have to worry about whether their child will return from school. We need more than just sympathy; we need concrete action to secure our schools and protect our future.

President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration's commitment to combating insecurity and securing the release of all captives. He has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State to bolster efforts in freeing abducted pupils and teachers. Several other states are also reportedly enhancing their security operations under federal government initiatives.

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If we can protest with pupils from P6 to SS1, at least the government will deploy the Army and police.