Commends President Tinubu and Security Agencies
Condemns Calls for the Release of Convicted Nnamdi Kanu
The Coalition for Good Governance (CGG), a body of civil society and non-governmental organisations, has applauded the Federal Government and Nigeria’s security agencies for the successful rescue of 38 abducted worshippers of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Eruku, Kwara State; 51 students of St. Mary’s Private and Primary School, Papiri, Niger State; and 24 students of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi State.
In a statement signed by the coalition leaders, the group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for staying true to his promise to secure the release of abducted Nigerians. The coalition also praised security agencies for “their professionalism and dedication in executing the directives of the President and Commander-in-Chief to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped victims.”
According to the group’s spokesperson, Nelson Ekujumi, the coalition remains deeply concerned about the trauma inflicted on victims and their families but expressed gratitude for their safe return.
“We thank God that the joy of the criminals was short-lived, owing to the gallantry and commitment of our security forces,” he said.
The coalition urged security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure sustained safety across the country in line with President Tinubu’s commitment to securing lives and property.
CGG also reminded state and local governments of their constitutional responsibilities regarding security and welfare, stressing that these duties do not lie with the Federal Government alone.
“It is unacceptable for subnational governments to abdicate their primary responsibility for security and welfare. States and local governments must rise to the occasion,” the group stated.
The coalition further called on citizens to support security agencies by sharing intelligence, avoiding divisive rhetoric, and working collectively to expose criminal networks.
The group commiserated with families who lost loved ones in the abductions and prayed for healing for those affected.
Commendation of Judiciary, Reaction to Calls for Release of Nnamdi Kanu
In a separate response, the Coalition for Good Governance commended the judiciary for what it described as a courageous and impartial judgment in the conviction and sentencing of the leader of the proscribed IPOB/ESN, Nnamdi Kanu, for terrorism-related offences.
The group praised Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, for his “patience, diligence, and resilience throughout the trial.”
According to Ekujumi,
“The conviction and sentencing of Nnamdi Kanu is a clear demonstration that the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man and is committed to justice for victims of violence attributed to IPOB activities.”
However, the coalition expressed strong disapproval of ongoing calls for a political solution and the release of Kanu, describing such appeals as “misguided and insensitive to the victims of violence.”
It urged President Tinubu to remain resolute and resist pressure to interfere with the judicial process, commending him for allowing the case to run its full legal course.
“The government must not succumb to calls that could undermine Nigeria’s global stance against terrorism,” the group stated.