The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has condemned the recent abduction of schoolgirls from the Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School Maga, Kwara State.
The agency led by Lanre Issa-Onilu also condemned the invasion of the Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku Kwara state by some terrorists.
In a statement issued by Paul Odenyi, NOA’s deputy director for Communication and media on Friday, the agency expressed concern over both incidents.
According to Odenyi, Issa-Onilu described the incident as a reprehensible act that violates the fundamental rights of children to safety and education.
The agency’s Director General also emphasised that such actions undermine national efforts to promote access to education, particularly for the girl-child.
Issa-Onilu while stating that no child seeking education should ever be put at risk, stressed that schools must remain safe spaces where children can learn, grow and aspire without fear.
“On the attack on Christian worshippers in Eruku Town of Kwara State, the DG, who expressed his heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families, also described it as a senseless and unacceptable act that threatens the peace, unity, and religious harmony that Nigerians have worked hard to build.
“He (Isaa-Onilu) reiterated that freedom of worship is a fundamental right enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution, and any act that seeks to intimidate or harm citizens based on their faith is not only unlawful but deeply unpatriotic.
“He assured the public that in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the security agencies are making concerted efforts, through coordinated security operations and intelligence gathering, to ensure the safe and swift return of the abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi State and the worshippers in Kwara,” Odenyi said.
Also, highlighting the NOA’s efforts towards addressing some of Nigeria’s challenges including insecurity, Odenyi said the agency’s monthly National Security Briefing is aimed at keeping the public informed about progress and achievements recorded by security and regulatory agencies across the country.
In addition, Isaa-Onilu urged Nigerians to actively support the security agencies by providing timely and useful information that could aid in protecting lives and preventing further harm.