By CALLISTUS OFFOR, Abuja-
The United Nations International Children Educational Fund (UNICEF) has expressed concern over reports of an overnight attack at the Government Girls Secondary School in Jangebe, Talata Mafara LGA of Zamfara State, where 317 schoolgirls were kidnapped.
In a statement by the UNICEF representative in Nigeria, Peter Hawkins expressed dismay by yet another brutal attack on schoolchildren in Nigeria.
“This is a gross violation of children’s rights and a horrific experience for children to go through – one which could have long-lasting effects on their mental health and well-being.
According to the Statement, UNICEF condemns the attack and calls on those responsible to release the girls immediately and for the government to take steps to ensure their safe release and the safety of all other schoolchildren in Nigeria.
It explains that, Children should feel safe at home and at school all the time, stressing that, parents should not need to worry for the safety of their children when they send them to school.
“UNICEF acknowledges efforts being made by the Government of Nigeria to secure the release of kidnapped school children in Nigeria and calls on the government and all concerned to make schools safe in Nigeria.”
The school attack comes just over a week after a similar attack in Niger State.