As the world marks International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 under the theme “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality.”, the Association of Christian Correspondents of Nigeria (ACCoN) has renewed calls for the Nigerian government to urgently secure the release of Leah Sharibu, who has now spent seven years in captivity.
Leah was among 110 schoolgirls abducted on February 19, 2018, from Government Girls’ Science and Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe State, by Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.
Unlike her peers, who were later released, she was held back for refusing to renounce her Christian faith, making her a symbol of religious persecution and the plight of countless abducted women and girls.
In a strongly worded statement, ACCoN President Adeola Ogunlade condemned the government’s persistent failure to secure Leah’s freedom, describing her prolonged captivity as unacceptable.
The group described her captivity as a stark reminder of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis and a grave violation of fundamental human rights, particularly freedom of religion.
“Leah Sharibu has tragically spent most of her adolescent years in captivity simply for holding onto her faith. It is unacceptable that, after seven years, the Nigerian government has not done enough to bring her home,” the statement read.
ACCoN called on the Federal Government, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to intensify rescue efforts for Leah and other victims of abduction.
On a day dedicated to celebrating the rights and achievements of women, ACCoN stressed that Leah’s story must remain in the global spotlight until justice is served.
“Her unwavering courage in the face of unimaginable adversity should serve as a beacon of hope and resilience for young girls in Nigeria,” the statement added.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to amplifying the voices of the oppressed and advocating for justice, urging both local and international communities to sustain pressure on the Nigerian government until Leah is finally brought home.