The Deputy Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly (BOHA), Hon. Abdullahi Musa Askira, has led approximately two dozen aggrieved parents and guardians in a protest over the failure of the Federal Government and its troops to safely rescue 42 abducted school children in the state. The children were kidnapped by Boko Haram insurgents on June 15, 2026, from the Mussa community in Askira/Uba Local Government Area.
Growing Anxiety and Anguish
Askira expressed that growing anxiety and anguish have gripped residents of Askira/Uba as community leaders, political stakeholders, and concerned citizens intensify calls for the immediate rescue of the 42 schoolchildren abducted nearly three weeks ago. Describing the incident as a heartbreaking assault on humanity, he demanded urgent action to secure the children's safe return.
Addressing Journalists
Speaking to journalists in Maiduguri on Saturday on behalf of critical stakeholders from Askira/Uba, the lawmaker conveyed deep concern over the fate of the pupils of Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School, who were reportedly seized by insurgents on May 15, 2026. With emotions running high, Askira stated that the community's patience was rapidly giving way to fear and uncertainty as families continue to wait for news of their children.
“We come before you with profound sadness and heavy hearts,” he declared. “These innocent children, whose only offence was seeking knowledge, have been cruelly taken away from their families. This is not only an attack on education but an assault on our shared humanity and the future of our society.”
Delayed Public Statements
The Deputy Speaker noted that stakeholders had deliberately refrained from public statements immediately after the incident, trusting that security agencies were working tirelessly to secure the children's release. However, the prolonged captivity has heightened fears among parents and residents. “Three weeks is an agonizingly long time for young children to remain in captivity, far from the protection and comfort of their families,” he lamented.
Commendation for Authorities
Despite growing frustration, community leaders commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for their commitment to restoring peace and responding swiftly to the tragedy. They particularly praised Governor Zulum's visit to Askira/Uba shortly after the incident to sympathize with affected families, describing it as a reflection of his people-centered leadership.
Askira also applauded the sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and other security agencies engaged in counterinsurgency operations across the region.
Demand for Decisive Measures
However, the deputy speaker stressed that more decisive measures are urgently needed. “We appeal to all relevant authorities to deploy every available intelligence, kinetic and non-kinetic strategy necessary to ensure the immediate and safe rescue of these children. Every moment they remain in captivity is one too many,” he said.
Call for Security Overhaul
The stakeholders further called for a comprehensive overhaul of security arrangements in Askira/Uba, citing the area's proximity to the fringes of the notorious Sambisa Forest, long regarded as a hideout for insurgent groups. They urged the Federal Government and security agencies to establish a permanent and fortified security architecture in the area, including forward operating bases, rapid response units, strengthened school security, and sustained military patrols to protect vulnerable communities.
According to the Deputy Speaker, the continued threat posed by insurgents underscores the urgent need to safeguard educational institutions and prevent future attacks on children.
