By Stephen Simon
Concerned about the rising wave of school abductions across Nigeria, a mother and her three children staged a peaceful protest in Abuja’s Maitama district, urging the government and security agencies to take urgent action to protect pupils and restore public confidence in the safety of schools.
The children, dressed in school uniforms and carrying placards, stood alongside their mother as she appealed to government officials and security agencies to take urgent action to protect pupils and secure the release of abducted students across the country.
A video of the demonstration, shared by ARISE TV, quickly gained traction on social media, drawing widespread reactions and reigniting concerns about the safety of schoolchildren.
Speaking during the protest, the woman said many parents now live in fear whenever their children leave for school, noting that repeated cases of abduction have eroded public confidence in school security.
The demonstration comes amid renewed concerns over attacks on schools and the kidnapping of students in various parts of Nigeria. It also follows the recent rescue of the sister of a former Minister of Power and her twin sons, who were reportedly abducted while travelling to school.
Reacting to the video, many social media users described the protest as courageous and timely, with several calling for improved security measures around schools and tougher action against kidnappers.
The Federal Government has maintained that it remains committed to tackling insecurity and securing the release of kidnapped citizens. President Bola Tinubu recently reiterated his administration’s resolve to combat terrorism and banditry nationwide.
As part of ongoing efforts, the government has approved the recruitment and deployment of forest guards in several states to support security operations and improve safety in communities vulnerable to attacks, particularly around schools and rural areas.
