ABUJA — The House of Representatives has issued an urgent directive to the Federal Government and security agencies to secure the immediate release of 42 schoolchildren abducted from Mussa Ward in the Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.

Urgent Motion for Rescue

The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by the representative for the Askira-Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency, Mr. Midala Balami. During Tuesday’s plenary session, lawmakers expressed deep concern over the recurring pattern of attacks on educational institutions in the North-East, warning that these incidents continue to devastate families and undermine the nation's future.

A Growing Threat: Rep. Balami highlighted that persistent insecurity is causing a decline in school enrollment and attendance, as parents fear for their children's safety.

Historical Context: Lawmakers recalled the tragic 2014 Chibok abduction, noting that despite various government interventions since that time, schools in Borno remain high-risk targets for armed groups.

Public Frustration: The motion emphasized that affected communities are no longer satisfied with official assurances and are demanding "visible and concrete actions" to resolve the crisis.

Legislative Mandates

The House has adopted a multi-pronged approach to address both the immediate crisis and the long-term vulnerability of schools:

Immediate Rescue: The Federal Government and security agencies are mandated to take "immediate and decisive action" to rescue the 42 students and all other persons currently in captivity.

Enhanced Protection: The House called for an increased deployment of security personnel, improved intelligence gathering, and the establishment of rapid-response mechanisms in high-risk areas.

Comprehensive Framework: The Federal Government is urged to implement a robust Safe Schools Security Framework, which includes the deployment of surveillance infrastructure, early warning systems, and community-based security arrangements.

Committee Oversight: The House Committees on National Security, Defence, and Basic Education have been tasked with engaging security agencies and reporting back on the progress made in securing the victims and hardening school security nationwide.

In his closing remarks, Rep. Balami reiterated the sentiment shared by many in the chamber: “The safety of our children and the protection of education must remain a national priority. Our children deserve to learn in an environment free from fear.”