Femi Falana, a prominent human rights lawyer, has highlighted the impact of the Federal Government’s actions on the continued captivity of approximately 100 Chibok girls. He emphasized that the government’s past persecution and deployment of troops to disband the BringBackOurGirls Advocacy Movement under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan have hindered efforts to secure the girls’ release.
During a virtual event organized by Women FM on Google Meet to mark the ’10 Years Life After Abduction of Chibok Girls’, Falana stressed the importance of revitalizing advocacy efforts to raise awareness among Nigerians and the global community about the plight of the abducted girls. He urged the movement to consider resuming rallies on a regular basis to exert pressure on the government to take decisive actions in locating the missing girls.
Speaking about his decision to decline an appointment to a panel of inquiry set up by the Jonathan administration in 2014, Falana expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of civilian recommendations in advising the government on rescuing the Chibok schoolgirls.
Falana’s call-to-action comes amidst ongoing efforts to secure the release of the remaining 87 abducted schoolgirls who are still in captivity. He urged the Federal Government to prioritize the freedom of these girls and reiterated the commitment of the #BringBackOurGirls Advocacy Movement to advocate for swift rescue operations and an end to insurgency in Nigeria.
The abduction of about 276 female students from Government Secondary School in Chibok by Boko Haram insurgents on April 14, 2014, sparked international outrage and drew attention to the plight of the missing girls. Despite initial efforts by previous administrations, including President Muhammadu Buhari’s intervention, nearly 100 girls remain unaccounted for.
Falana criticized the government for what he perceived as mismanagement of the rescue operation and a lack of sufficient efforts to ensure the girls’ safe return. He highlighted the need for sustained pressure on the government to fulfill its obligations under the law and secure the release of the abducted girls.
Regarding the challenges faced by the #BringBackOurGirls Movement, Falana pointed out instances of government persecution, including the deployment of troops to disrupt peaceful protests and suppress advocacy efforts. He called for a renewed focus on rallying support and maintaining visibility to compel the government to prioritize the rescue and safe return of the missing girls.
Expressing disbelief at the lack of modern tracking technology and crime prevention measures in a country with a large population like Nigeria, Falana emphasized the need for enhanced security measures to address the rising cases of abductions.
As the nation marks the 10th anniversary of the Chibok girls’ abduction, Falana underscored the importance of sustained advocacy and public pressure to hold the government accountable and ensure the safe return of the missing girls.