NHRC Demands Immediate Rescue of Abducted Schoolchildren

….Calls for Justice and Safer Schools

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on the Federal Government to urgently secure the release of all abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State and other parts of the country, while ensuring that those responsible for such crimes are brought to justice.

The appeal was made by the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Tony Ojukwu, as Nigeria joined the rest of the world in commemorating the 2026 International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression on June 4.

Condemning the recent abductions of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo and Borno states, Ojukwu described the incidents as serious violations of children’s rights and an assault on their rights to education, safety and human dignity.

He noted that abductions, sexual violence, trafficking, child labour, recruitment of children by armed groups and corporal punishment contravene Nigeria’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the African Union Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, as well as the Child Rights Act, 2003.

“Every child has the right to life, dignity, protection and education. Attacks on schools and children constitute a breach of these rights, and the NHRC demands zero tolerance for attacks and violence against schoolchildren,” Ojukwu said.

The NHRC chief called for the full implementation of the Federal Government’s Safe Schools Initiative through adequate funding for security infrastructure, deployment of trained personnel, provision of safe transit routes and establishment of community-based protection systems.

He also urged the Senate to expedite passage of the Safe Schools Bill proposed by the NHRC and other stakeholders, describing it as a critical step towards strengthening the protection of children in educational institutions.

According to him, effective enforcement of the Child Rights Act, 2003, across all states and proper implementation of the Universal Basic Education Act, 2004, would help reduce children’s vulnerability to exploitation and abuse.

Ojukwu reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to monitoring, investigating and seeking redress for violations against children, while advocating increased psychosocial support services and the creation of safe learning environments free from fear, violence and neglect.

“As we mark this day, we reaffirm that no child should be left behind. Rescue the abducted, prosecute the perpetrators and protect every Nigerian child,” he stated.

The International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression is observed annually on June 4 to raise awareness about the suffering of children affected by violence, conflict and other forms of aggression worldwide.