The Coalition of Northern Groups, CNG, has urged the Federal Government to ensure that victims of recent school abductions in Oyo and Borno states receive equal attention, support and rescue efforts, regardless of their location.
The group made the appeal while condemning the kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers in both states, describing the incidents as further evidence of the persistent security challenges confronting communities across Nigeria.
In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the coalition expressed concern over what it described as disparities in public discourse and official attention surrounding the two incidents. According to the group, every victim of insecurity deserves the same level of concern, urgency and government intervention.
The coalition referenced reports indicating that about 46 pupils and teachers were abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15, 2026. It also pointed to reports of the abduction of 42 pupils from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State on the same day.
Charanchi stressed that the organisation was not seeking to diminish attention given to victims in Oyo State but was advocating fairness in the national response to insecurity. He maintained that every Nigerian life carries equal value and that all affected communities deserve protection, support and justice.
The coalition noted that the recurring attacks on schools have continued to undermine access to education, particularly in rural and vulnerable communities. It warned that frequent incidents of kidnapping and violence could discourage parents from sending their children to school, thereby worsening educational challenges in affected regions.
CNG called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of all abducted pupils, teachers and other victims of kidnapping across the country. The group also urged authorities to adopt a more coordinated and comprehensive strategy to tackle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime.
Among its recommendations, the coalition advocated stronger security around schools, improved intelligence gathering, enhanced surveillance systems and increased collaboration between security agencies and local communities. It also called for sustained operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks responsible for attacks on schools and rural settlements.
The group argued that ensuring equal treatment for all victims of insecurity would strengthen public confidence in government institutions and promote national unity at a time when many communities are facing security threats.
Security experts have repeatedly warned that attacks on educational institutions not only endanger lives but also threaten long-term social and economic development by disrupting learning and creating fear among students, parents and teachers.
The coalition concluded by urging authorities to remain committed to protecting all Nigerians and ensuring that victims of criminal activities receive justice, support and the attention necessary for their safe return and recovery.
