‘Our celebration incomplete until every captive returns home’ – CAN

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has said the joy over the rescue of pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State will only be complete when every Nigerian still being held by kidnappers and other criminal groups regains their freedom.

CAN stated this in a statement issued by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Sunday while reacting to the successful rescue of the victims after 56 days in captivity.

The association described the rescue as a major relief for the affected families and Nigerians who had followed the incident with concern.

“Our celebration will not be complete until every captive returns home and every Nigerian can live, learn, work and worship without fear,” Okoh said.

He thanked God for preserving the lives of the rescued victims, saying no child or teacher should have to endure such an ordeal.

“Today is a day of gratitude as the rescued children and teachers have been reunited with their families. We thank God for protecting their lives through a difficult experience that no child or teacher should ever face,” he said.

While celebrating the rescue, CAN noted that many families in states such as Borno and Niger were still waiting for the return of their loved ones.

The association commended President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Amotekun Corps, local hunters and vigilantes for their roles in the rescue operation.

According to CAN, the success of the operation demonstrated the importance of patience, intelligence-gathering and collaboration among security agencies.

The association also praised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for supporting the affected families throughout the 56-day period and welcomed the state government’s commitment to rehabilitating the rescued pupils and teachers.

CAN, however, urged Nigerians not to lose sight of those still in captivity.

The association stressed that every Nigerian life deserves equal attention, regardless of ethnicity, religion or location.

“Our compassion must never become selective, and our concern must never depend on geography, ethnicity or religion,” the statement said.

CAN also appealed to Nigerians to continue praying for those still in captivity, support security personnel carrying out lawful operations, and stand with families awaiting the safe return of their loved ones.