The Para-Mallam Peace Foundation has reinstated its demand for the unconditional release of the kidnapped Christian schoolgirl, Leah Sharibu, who has been in Boko Haram captivity for 674 days.
In its Christmas message titled “Re: Leah Sharibu – Christmas in Captivity 2,” the Founder/Convener of the group, Revd Gideon Para-Mallam, called on President Muhammadu Buhari alongside all stakeholders for concerted efforts toward her release and others in Boko Haram’s captivity.
The statement reads in part: “Christmas is a time of celebration but not for Leah Sharibu, the courageous Christian girl who will unfortunately be spending her second Christmas in captivity.
“Christmas is a period for family reunion, fellowship and celebration in Africa and indeed around the world. People are right now celebrating but not everyone can celebrate.
“How can Leah celebrate Christmas in captivity? How can Leah’s parents celebrate? How can those of us who yearn to see Leah freed celebrate?
“Feelers indicate that the Nigerian Government is trying but her efforts have so far fallen short. Leah is still in captivity nearly two years on. This is unacceptable with a government in place.
“The international community appears unconcerned about the plight of this 16-year-old innocent girl. Leah’s case is also human rights issue and remains a justice issue as her freedom of belief is being undermined because of her Christian Faith!”
Quoting Isaiah Chapter 9: verses 6-7 from the Holy Bible, he added: “I urge all, that we rise again and do more to see Leah freed from her Boko Haram captors as we enter 2020.
“Let’s work for Leah’s freedom; along with several others like Alice Ngaddah, a young mother of two, GraceTuka, Bitrus Zakka Bwallah and several unnamed others.
“The conscience of the world needs to be roused once again to work in a tireless manner to see Leah and others freed.
“Where is the AU, UN, EU and other global agencies who care about humanity? With all your combined efforts and those of global leaders, I believe something positive can be done.
“It is inconceivable how the Nigerian Government keeps talking with little or no results so far to convincingly show Nigerians and the world that they are capable of bringing Leah home to her parents.
“It’s up to the President to show this rather than tell! Tough talking does not set captives free. But smart and tough action does! Let’s not give up and surely, we must not give in also.
“Leah Sharibu as at today December 25th, 2019, you have spent 674 days in captivity. But be encouraged, one day you will be set free by the special grace of God. Your freedom will surely come.”
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