The Association of Christian Correspondents of Nigeria has once again called on the Federal Government to take urgent action to secure the release of Leah Sharibu, who has remained in captivity for seven years.

Sharibu, one of 110 schoolgirls abducted on February 19, 2018, from Government Girls’ Science and Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe State, by the Islamic State in West Africa Province, was reportedly denied freedom for refusing to renounce her Christian faith.

While her schoolmates were released, she remains a hostage, symbolising the plight of countless women and girls held captive by terrorist groups.

In a statement signed by its president, Adeola Ogunlade, ACCoN expressed frustration over the government’s failure to secure Sharibu’s release, along with thousands of other women and girls still in captivity. “Leah Sharibu has tragically spent most of her adolescent years in captivity simply for holding true to her faith. The Nigerian authorities have not done enough to bring her home,” the statement read.

The association urged the Federal Government, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts to secure the freedom of Sharibu and others still held by terrorist factions.

ACCoN described Sharibu’s continued captivity as a grim reminder of Nigeria’s security crisis and the urgent need to uphold fundamental human rights, including freedom of religion.

“Sharibu’s courage in the face of unimaginable adversity remains a beacon of hope and inspiration, especially for young girls in Nigeria,” the statement continued.

“We reaffirm our commitment to being a voice for the voiceless and advocating for peace, justice, and security in Nigeria,” the group stated.

As the world celebrates women’s resilience and rights, ACCoN insists that Sharibu’s story must not be forgotten and that every effort must be made to bring her home safely.

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