Chibok Parents Mourn Buhari, Renew Call for Release of 87 Missing Girls

Parents of the Chibok schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram in 2014 have paid tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on July 13, while reiterating their demand for the release of the remaining 87 girls still in captivity.

The Association of the Parents of the Missing Chibok Girls expressed gratitude for the 103 girls rescued during Buhari’s tenure but lamented that many of their daughters are still missing.

Key Points

• Abduction and Rescue Efforts: 276 girls were abducted from Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State, in April 2014. Buhari’s administration facilitated the release of 103 girls through negotiations and military efforts.
• Parental Plea: The parents have called on authorities to “move beyond rhetoric” and implement concrete measures to bring the remaining girls home.

Reactions and Concerns

• Government Inaction: Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have criticized the government’s failure to prevent ongoing school abductions in the region.
• Security Challenges: The parents’ plea highlights the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria’s northeast, where Boko Haram’s insurgency has displaced millions and left schools vulnerable to attacks.

Moving Forward

The parents’ renewed call for action underscores the need for sustained efforts to address the security crisis and ensure the safe return of the missing girls. As the government continues to grapple with the challenges posed by Boko Haram, the fate of the remaining 87 Chibok girls remains a pressing concern.