The Nigerian Law School Class of 1988 expresses deep concern and outrage over the persistent and disturbing incidents of kidnapping of school children across Nigeria. Recent abductions of pupils, students, and teachers in different parts of the country underscore the urgent need for decisive action to protect the lives, dignity, and future of Nigerian children.

As legal practitioners, parents, grandparents, and patriotic citizens, we condemn in the strongest terms the criminal targeting of innocent children and educational institutions. Schools should remain sanctuaries of learning, hope, moulding, and national development, not theatres of fear, trauma, violence, and human suffering.

The continued attacks on educational institutions in different parts of Nigeria threaten the constitutional rights of children to life, dignity, security, and education. They also undermine public confidence in the capacity of the state to protect its citizens and preserve the rule of law. Reports over the past decade reveal a disturbing pattern of school-related abductions that has affected thousands of children and disrupted education in many communities. These issues continue to be unaddressed to date. Corrective actions need to be in place to address these concerns:

We therefore:
1. Call upon the Federal Government and all State Governments to develop and implement improvement strategies to intensify security measures around schools and vulnerable communities.

2. Urge security agencies to deploy intelligence-driven strategies aimed at preventing abductions and ensuring the prompt rescue of victims.

3. Demand the vigorous prosecution of kidnappers and their collaborators in accordance with the law, while ensuring that perpetrators face swift and appropriate justice.

4. Encourage the implementation and strengthening of safe-school initiatives, including early warning systems, community vigilance mechanisms, and adequate security infrastructure for educational institutions.

5. Appeal to community leaders, traditional institutions, religious organisations, civil society groups, and parents to cooperate with security agencies in safeguarding schools and protecting children.

6. Put oversight accountability systems in place to monitor and ensure the effective implementation of the above recommendations.

The Nigerian Law School Class of 1988 stands in solidarity with affected families and communities. We share their pain and anxiety and pray for the safe return of all children and teachers currently in captivity.

Nigeria’s children are the nation’s most valuable asset. Their safety and education must remain a paramount national priority. No society can achieve sustainable development where children live under the constant threat of abduction and violence.

We call on all stakeholders to rise above politics, sectional interests, and bureaucracy to confront this national challenge with urgency and determination.

Signed:

For and on behalf of the Nigerian Law School Class of 1988

Ike C. Ibe
Chairman

Orighoye Obelikpeyah
Secretary

Richard Nwankwo
Public Relations Officer