The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) says happiness over the rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area in Oyo State remains incomplete until all Nigerians held captive by kidnappers and criminals walk free. Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN's president, made this statement on Sunday while responding to news that the victims had regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity.
CAN described the rescue as welcome relief for the families affected and for Nigerians who had monitored the crisis closely. "Our celebration will not be complete until every captive returns home and every Nigerian can live, learn, work and worship without fear," Okoh said.
He expressed gratitude that the rescued victims survived their ordeal, stressing that neither children nor teachers should ever experience such trauma. "Today is a day of gratitude as the rescued children and teachers have been reunited with their families.
We thank God for protecting their lives through a difficult experience that no child or teacher should ever face," he told reporters.
The association reminded Nigerians that many families in Borno and Niger states continue waiting for the return of their relatives held by armed groups. CAN praised President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the armed forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Amotekun Corps, hunters and vigilantes for their work in securing the hostages' freedom.
According to CAN, the successful operation showed how patience, smart intelligence work and teamwork among security agencies can achieve results. The group also commended Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for standing by the families throughout the 56-day period and backing plans to support the rescued pupils and teachers.
CAN urged Nigerians not to forget those still trapped in captivity. The association stressed that every life matters equally, regardless of where people live, their faith or their ethnic background.
"Our compassion must never become selective, and our concern must never depend on geography, ethnicity or religion," the statement read.
The group appealed to citizens to keep praying for captives still held and to support security forces conducting lawful operations. CAN also urged Nigerians to stand alongside families hoping their loved ones will return home safely.
