The Kogi State Government has mourned the killing of two students of the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, by their abductors.
The state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Fatimah Momoh, while addressing parents and children at the Children’s Day celebration held at Muhammadu Buhari Square in Lokoja, the state capital on Monday, described the killing as tragic and unwarranted.
It was earlier reported on Sunday that the state government reiterated its commitment to ensuring those behind the killings of two abducted students of the university are apprehended and brought to justice.
The government explained that the students were murdered while negotiations for their release were ongoing.
The Kogi Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, had said in a statement on Sunday that while 21 other students were rescued alive, the two others were killed by their abductors while in captivity.
Momoh, who led the gathering to observe a one-minute silence for the deceased students also called for improved access to quality education for all children.
She said, “The news of two students of Confluence University who were killed by their abductors is tragic and unwarranted. This is an avoidable situation.
“May their soul rest in perfect peace and may their families be comforted, Insha Allah. Amen.”
The Commissioner stressed that the occasion of Children’s Day celebration for parents and guardians to reflect on their duty of nurturing and protecting the children.
She added that children can reach their potential through the combined efforts of all stakeholders through quality education and strong values.
The Commissioner, while stressing the commitment of the administration to provide quality education to children across the state, noted that it has zero tolerance for children being out of school.
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“Children are our society’s heartbeat, destined to be tomorrow’s leaders and innovators. As we celebrate, we must remember our duty to nurture and protect them. Quality education and strong values like respect, empathy, and integrity are crucial for their development.
“I am proud to say that Kogi State is leading in providing quality education. We offer free education from primary to secondary school, cover exam fees, and distribute bursaries to students in tertiary institutions. Our state has zero tolerance for children being out of school, and parents must ensure their children attend.
“Let us reaffirm our commitment to quality education for all children. Together, as parents, educators, and citizens, we can help every child reach their full potential,” Momoh concluded.
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