TheCable

The United Nations has expressed outrage over the abduction of 110 schoolgirls of Government Girls’ Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe state.

The girls were abducted when Boko Haram insurgents raided the school on February 19.

In a statement, Antonio Guterres, UN secretary-general, called for the “unconditional” release of the girls.

The statement issued by Stephane Dujarric, Guterres’ spokesman, said the secretary-general was “gravely” concerned over the situation of the schoolgirls.

He also called for the immediate release of the girls and for their safe return to their families.

The UN chief urged the Nigerian authorities to swiftly bring those responsible for this dastardly act to justice.

He reiterated the solidarity and support of the UN to Nigeria and other affected countries in the African region in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

“And we very much hope that the perpetrators will be brought to justice, and just as importantly, that the girls will be found and returned to safety,” the statement added.

“I think the fact that these young women were abducted in an educational setting, where they should have been safe, just adds to the horror of the story.”