The Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), in condemning the kidnapping of school children in Oyo State, has called on all female journalists, bankers, professionals, and women from all walks of life to rise in defence of these innocent children.

Chairperson of NAWOJ in Abia State, Ambassador Nora Okafor, in a statement, said the response, “Became necessary in view of the prolonged ordeal of these children whose only “offence” was attending school in pursuit of education and a brighter future for themselves and the nation.”

She lamented the development and continued captivity of the children in a forest through no fault of theirs.

“It is deeply troubling that while many leaders sleep comfortably, with their own children secure at home and abroad, the children of ordinary Nigerians, whose parents faithfully pay taxes, are left to suffer the consequences of the insecurity that continues to plague our nation.

“Even more disturbing is the reported beheading of a teacher, yet life appears to have continued as though the sanctity of human life no longer matters in our society.

“We raise our voices in unison to say, “No” to this growing menace and call on the government and security agencies to deploy every available resource toward the immediate rescue and release of these children.

“Particular attention must be given to the welfare and safety of the girls, who may be exposed to unimaginable physical and psychological trauma while in captivity.

“Until these children regain their freedom, female journalists across Abia State are encouraged to wear a touch of red as a symbol of our collective pain, grief, and solidarity with the victims and their families,” the statement reads.