Intensify efforts to rescue Leah Sharibu, CAN urges FG

The Christian Association of Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to redouble its efforts to secure the release of Leah Sharibu, who was kidnapped seven years ago on February 19, 2018.

Leah Sharibu was among 110 schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram terrorists from the Government Girls Science and Technical School in Dapchi, Yobe State, in February 2018.

While others were released, Leah was withheld by the terrorists for refusing to denounce her Christian faith.

In a statement released on Thursday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, noted that no sacrifice was too great to bring Leah back home while urging the international community to lend their voices and resources to the course.

Okoh said her prolonged captivity was “a painful reminder” of the insecurity plaguing the country.

He further stated that Leah’s faith in the face of adversity remained a beacon of hope and inspiration while calling on Nigerians and Christian faithful to unite in prayer and action for Leah and for peace in the land

The statement reads as follows “Today, as we mark over seven years since the abduction of Leah Sharibu by Boko Haram insurgents on February 19, 2018, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) stands in solidarity with her family and all who continue to bear the pain of her absence. Leah’s courage and steadfast faith in the face of unimaginable adversity remain a beacon of hope and inspiration to us all.

“Her prolonged captivity is a painful reminder of the insecurity plaguing our nation and the urgent need to protect the fundamental right to freedom of religion. We call on the Federal Government to redouble its efforts to secure Leah’s release and that of others still held captive. No sacrifice is too great to bring our daughter home. We also appeal to the international community to lend their voices and resources to this cause.

“CAN urges all Nigerians, especially the Christian faithful, to unite in prayer and action for Leah and for peace in our land. Let us transcend denominational lines and work as one body to advocate for justice. We remain hopeful that Leah will soon return to her loved ones, and we assure her family of our unrelenting support.

“To the government, security agencies, and all stakeholders, we charge you to act decisively to end this scourge of violence and restore safety to our nation. CAN will continue to speak for the voiceless and champion the cause of peace and unity in Nigeria.”