The Northern Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has congratulated the parents of Zainab Aliyu over her release from Saudi Arabian detention while beckoning that Leah Sharibu should not be forgotten.
The association made the appeal in a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer, Northern CAN, Reverend Joseph Hayab.
Information credited to Punch reports that CAN decried unlawful detention of Nigerians for offences they have not committed, while congratulating the Federal Government for the role in Zainab’s release, it called the Government to remember the Chibok Secondary School girl, Leah.
CAN called the Government to treat all Nigerians equally, arguing that Leah, who has been in Boko Haram captivity also deserves to be rescued, “We should not celebrate Zainab Aliyu’s release and forget Leah Sharibu.”
The statement read “CAN Northern states rejoices with the parents of Zainab Aliyu and the government of our country for securing her release after she was arrested and detained in Saudi Arabia for allegations of drug trafficking.
“It is sad that many innocent Nigerians are suffering for a crime they know nothing about. This prompt effort by government is commendable and should be sustained for all and in the future because this is what we want to see from our leaders in this country.
“But as we rejoice about this development, we are also compelled to ask this important question: Are all Nigerians equal or some are more equal than others?
“We are aware that many innocent citizens of our country have been arrested, some killed and others are still in detention; but we have not heard any directives from Mr. President to his Attorney General to take action about them with this kind of urgency.
“If we want our citizens to be proud of their government and country, then we need to show equal concern about what happens to everyone in this country. We cannot also celebrate the release of Zainab and forget Leah Sharibu who did not commit any crime but has been in captivity for over a year now.” The statement read.
CAN appealed to the Federal Government to direct security agencies to double their efforts and ensure the release and reunion of Leah with her family, adding that Leah desires to enjoy protection from her leaders.
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