The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Borno State chapter, has called for urgent rescue of 78 schoolchildren and others who have spent over 100 days in captivity.
State CAN Chairman, Archbishop John Bakeni, made the call Sunday at a prayer session in Maiduguri to mark CAN’s 50th anniversary.
Bakeni said the spate of abductions forced a sober celebration, noting many residents are caught between economic hardship and insecurity.
“CAN is 50. There are lots of events lined up. Sadly, at the state level, our celebration is a sober one. How do you celebrate when your children are in captivity, when your brothers and sisters are in captivity, when so many communities are being attacked?” he queried.
He said despite the cloud of uncertainty, hardship and insecurity, the association would not be discouraged but will intensify prayers for peace.
“We believe God will answer our prayers,” he said, adding that CAN is using advocacy to constantly remind authorities of victims’ plight.
