By: Abdullahi Inuwa
An atmosphere of anxiety and hope hangs over Lassa community in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State as families of students and teachers abducted during a terrorist attack on Government Day Secondary School have appealed to the Federal Government and security agencies to secure the freedom of those still in captivity.
The emotional plea follows the successful rescue of some of the abducted National Examinations Council (NECO) candidates and the school’s Vice Principal by troops of Operation Hadin Kai, working in collaboration with other security agencies during ongoing search-and-rescue operations.
Although the latest military success has brought relief to the community, relatives say the mission remains incomplete as several students and members of staff are yet to regain their freedom.
Parents, guardians and community leaders praised the courage and commitment of the troops but urged the military to intensify operations until every abducted victim is safely returned home.
For many families, the joy of seeing some victims rescued has been overshadowed by the uncertainty surrounding those who remain in the hands of the terrorists.
The attack, which disrupted the ongoing NECO examinations, has once again exposed the lingering security threats facing schools in parts of the North-East, where insurgents have repeatedly targeted educational institutions and innocent civilians.
Residents described the incident as a painful reminder of the sacrifices families continue to endure in conflict-affected communities, insisting that the remaining captives must not be forgotten.
Community leaders appealed to the Federal Government to sustain military pressure on the terrorists while mobilising every available security and intelligence resource to ensure the safe return of the remaining abductees.
As rescue operations continue, the people of Lassa say their prayers and expectations remain focused on one goal—the safe homecoming of every student and teacher still being held captive.
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