Tony Ojukwu, the executive secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, has called for the urgent rescue of the abducted Oyo schoolchildren and their teachers.

Mr Ojukwu made the call on Thursday in a speech to commemorate the 2026 International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression. He urged the federal government to rescue all kidnapped schoolchildren in Oyo state and others, including other innocent children in captivity, and ensure justice.

On May 15, terrorists stormed the Baptist Nursery and Primary School in the Oriire LGA of Oyo state and abducted schoolchildren and their teachers.

He condemned the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo and Borno and other similar incidents, noting that “these abductions are grave violations of children’s rights and a direct attack on their right to education, safety, and dignity”.

Mr Ojukwu noted that abductions, sexual violence, trafficking, child labour, recruitment by armed groups, and corporal punishment violate Nigeria’s obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

He added the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and the Child Rights Act, 2003.

“Every child has the right to life, dignity, protection, and education. Attacks on schools and children constitute a breach of this right, and the NHRC demands zero tolerance for attacks and violence against schoolchildren. NHRC calls for full implementation of the federal government’s Safe Schools Initiative through funded security infrastructure, trained personnel, safe transit routes, and community protection systems,” he said.

He further called on the Senate to pass the NHRC-proposed safe schools bill, Ward C, Education is a Vaccine, and the Federal Ministry of Education, and other relevant stakeholders.

Mr Ojukwu further urged the enforcement of the Child Rights Act 2003 in all states and the effective use of the Universal Basic Education Act 2004 to reduce children’s vulnerability to exploitation.

The NHRC, according to him, will monitor, investigate, and pursue redress for all violations against children. Mr Ojukwu further called for scaled psychosocial support and safe learning environments free from fear, violence, and neglect.

“As we mark this day, we reaffirm: no child should be left behind. Rescue the abducted, prosecute the perpetrators, and protect every Nigerian child,” he said.

The International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression is observed annually on June 4.

(NAN)