A decade since the harrowing abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok Girls Secondary School in Borno State, 21 of those released have returned with 34 children, as reported by the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF). The foundation released this information in a press statement this weekend, marking the 10th anniversary of the abduction.
The MMF report illuminates the severe segxwal violence and forced marriages that the girls endured during their captivity. Furthermore, the report revealed the death of 48 parents of the abducted victims over the past decade, underscoring the enduring impact of the event on the Chibok community. Additionally, it highlighted ongoing psychological trauma among survivors and their families, which has resulted in significant health issues and barriers to employment and education. Currently, 91 of the originally abducted girls remain unaccounted for.
Dr. Aisha Muhammad-Oyebode, CEO of MMF, presented the report virtually and discussed the ongoing crisis of kidnappings in Nigeria, which shows no signs of abating. She outlined ten key recommendations for the Nigerian government and the international community. These recommendations include enhanced security measures, community empowerment initiatives, psychological support services, educational programs, legal reforms, and improved communication strategies. The report also calls for increased humanitarian aid, development assistance, women’s empowerment programs, and the implementation of early warning systems for security threats.
Dr. Muhammad-Oyebode emphasized the stagnant progress in addressing the root causes of conflict, extremism, and violence against women and girls in Nigeria. The presentation aimed to renew focus on these critical issues and advocate for concerted action to prevent further tragedies similar to the Chibok abduction.
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