The Nigeria representative of the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, Peter Hawkins has condemned the abduction of some students of Kagara Science School in Niger State by bandits yesterday.

In a statement issued by UNICEF Nigeria, the country representative called for the immediate and unconditional release of the victims, noting that children have right to safety anywhere they are.

“UNICEF condemns in the strongest possible terms any attack on a school and calls for the immediate and unconditional release of any children who may be missing, and their safe return to their families.”

“UNICEF is deeply concerned about these reported acts of violence. Attacks on schools are a violation of children’s rights. Children should feel safe at home and at school at all times – and parents should not need to worry for the safety of their children when they send them off to school in the morning.”

“We acknowledge the efforts being taken by the Government of Nigeria for the safe return of any missing children”, he said.