Change.org petitions for release of over 24 abducted Gusau university girls

A petition for the safe return of more than 24 students abducted from the Federal University, Gusau (FUGUS), Zamfara state, over two weeks ago has been raised in a call on the Federal Government of Nigeria for urgent, swift and decisive action to ensure the safety of these young girls.

While Zamfara State, like many other regions in the northwest, has grappled with insecurity due to the activities of bandits, the distressing situation in the abduction which unfolded in the early hours of Friday September 22, 2023 in the Zamfara State capital has been described by Change.org, a Civil Society Organization, as deeply troubling, highlighting the urgent need for decisive action by the Federal Government.

Lead Campaigner for change.org Nigeria, Maryam Bukar Hassan (Alhanislam), said the petition launched by a concerned citizen, Umar Gombe, encapsulates the distress experienced by many individuals who all agree that it is unacceptable to stand by in silence while the young girls remain in captivity.

“The abduction of these students is a poignant reminder of the constant challenges faced by our fellow students. The fear and uncertainty they must be experiencing is unimaginable. The objective here is for the safe return of the abducted FUGUS students and emphasis on the urgency for swift and decisive measures to ensure their safe return,” Bukar said in a signed statement released on Wednesday.

She called for critical spotlighting of the situation and urged for public support and solidarity in the call and demand for the safe return of the abducted FUGUS students, including the signing of the petition on change.org.

“We appeal to the relevant authorities, including the government and security agencies, to act swiftly and effectively to secure the safe release of the #FreeFUGUS girls. These students should be pursuing their education without fear, as every student should.

“Let us unite and make our voices heard. This petition is a demonstration of our commitment to the safe return of these students and the restoration of their lives and dreams. Together, we can collectively appeal to put an end to this nightmare and reunite these students with their families and communities,” Alhanislam said.