The Leah Sharibu Foundation has expressed deep concern over the continued captivity of Leah Sharibu, describing her prolonged ordeal as a “national tragedy.”
The President of the Foundation, Dr. Gloria Puldu, made the remarks during a press briefing in Jos on Wednesday, marking exactly seven years since Sharibu was abducted alongside over 100 schoolgirls in Dapchi, Yobe State.
Puldu called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure Sharibu’s release, along with that of all other Nigerians held captive by insurgents.
“Today marks seven years in captivity and Sharibu’s eighth birthday spent away from her family, after she was taken alongside over 100 schoolgirls from Dapchi, Yobe,” Puldu said.
She added, “Leah’s prolonged captivity remains a national tragedy and a blow to Nigeria’s conscience.”
The Foundation president urged President Bola Tinubu to uphold his constitutional obligation to protect all citizens, emphasizing that Sharibu’s case should transcend religious and regional divides.
“As Leah turns 22 years old today, we call on President Bola Tinubu to fulfil his constitutional duty to protect all citizens, regardless of faith or region,” Puldu stated.
She further appealed to security agencies to prioritize Sharibu’s rescue in ongoing counterterrorism operations, saying, “We also call on the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Nigerian Armed Forces, and intelligence agencies to prioritise Sharibu’s case in the ongoing security operations.”
Additionally, Puldu urged the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to provide psychosocial support for Sharibu’s family, who have endured years of anguish since her abduction in February 2018.
Sharibu, then 14, was the only Dapchi schoolgirl not released by Boko Haram after the others were freed, reportedly because she refused to renounce her Christian faith. Her continued captivity has drawn widespread condemnation and calls for government intervention.
The Foundation’s appeal comes amid growing concerns over Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, with thousands still held captive by armed groups across the country.
