By Palang Paul
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has said the rescue of abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State is incomplete until every Nigerian held by kidnappers regains freedom.
CAN made the statement on Sunday 12th July 2026 while reacting to the rescue of the victims after 56 days in captivity.
In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association described the successful operation as a source of relief to the affected families and Nigerians who had anxiously followed the incident.
“Our celebration will not be complete until every captive returns home and every Nigerian can live, learn, work and worship without fear,” Okoh said.
He thanked God for preserving the lives of the rescued pupils and teachers, saying no child or educator should ever endure the trauma of abduction.
“Today is a day of gratitude as the rescued children and teachers have been reunited with their families. We thank God for protecting their lives through a difficult experience that no child or teacher should ever face,” he added.
While celebrating the rescue, CAN noted that many families across states such as Borno and Niger are still waiting for the safe return of their loved ones.
The association commended President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Amotekun Corps, local hunters and vigilantes for their roles in securing the victims’ release.
It said the successful operation demonstrated the importance of intelligence gathering, patience and collaboration among security agencies in tackling insecurity.
CAN also praised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for supporting the affected families throughout the 56-day ordeal and welcomed the state government’s commitment to rehabilitating the rescued pupils and teachers.
The association, however, urged Nigerians not to forget those who remain in captivity, stressing that every life deserves equal concern regardless of ethnicity, religion or location.
“Our compassion must never become selective, and our concern must never depend on geography, ethnicity or religion,” the statement said.
CAN further called on Nigerians to continue praying for those still in captivity, support security personnel carrying out lawful operations and stand with families awaiting the safe return of their loved ones.
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