The 44 children abducted from Mussa had spent more than 138 days in captivity as of the time the motion was presented. The 36 students taken from Lassa had been held for over 70 days, while victims abducted along the Buratai-Maiduguri Road had spent more than 160 days in captivity
By Mmesoma Onwuka
The House of Representatives has called for urgent and coordinated efforts to secure the release of 116 schoolchildren abducted in Borno State, as well as other victims who have spent months in captivity.
The call followed a motion sponsored by Rep. Midala Balami, who raised concerns over the prolonged captivity of victims abducted from Mussa, Lassa and the Buratai-Maiduguri Road.
Balami told lawmakers that 44 schoolchildren were abducted from Mussa on May 15, 2026, while another 36 people were taken in Mussa and along the Buratai-Maiduguri Road.
He added that the situation was further aggravated by the abduction of 36 students and two teachers from Lassa Ward in Askira-Uba Local Government Area.
According to the lawmaker, the 44 children abducted from Mussa had spent more than 138 days in captivity as of the time the motion was presented. The 36 students taken from Lassa had been held for over 70 days, while victims abducted along the Buratai-Maiduguri Road had spent more than 160 days in captivity.
He said the prolonged captivity had subjected the victims’ families and their communities to severe emotional distress, fear and uncertainty.
Balami also warned that the continued detention of the victims posed serious threats to their lives, safety, education and fundamental rights, while leaving the affected communities vulnerable to further attacks and abductions.
While acknowledging the efforts of security agencies, local authorities, traditional rulers and community members, the lawmaker urged the authorities to intensify and better coordinate rescue operations.
Following the debate, the House directed security agencies to sustain search and rescue operations until the abducted children and other victims are safely recovered.
Lawmakers also called for improved intelligence gathering and information sharing among the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, intelligence agencies and other security institutions to help locate the victims and apprehend those responsible for the abductions.
The House further urged authorities to strengthen security along the Buratai-Maiduguri Road and in Mussa, Lassa and other vulnerable communities through increased patrols, intelligence-led operations and appropriate security checkpoints.
Beyond security measures, the lawmakers called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to provide affected families and communities with relief materials, medical assistance and psychological support.
The resolution followed an earlier intervention by the House on May 15 concerning the abduction of the 44 schoolchildren from Mussa.
Balami warned that any further delay in securing the victims’ release could expose them to greater danger and deepen the psychological and emotional trauma being suffered by their families and communities.