Women Radio Hosts Virtual Panel Discussion to Mark Seven Years of Leah Sharibu’s Abduction

To mark seven years since Leah Sharibu was taken from her school in Dapchi, Yobe State, Women Radio 91.7 FM hosted a virtual panel discussion titled “Leah Sharibu’s Captivity: A Call to End the Cycle of Abductions.” The discussion, held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, focused on the impact of Leah’s continued captivity and the larger issue of insecurity in Nigeria.

Barrister Tolu Adeoti, a women’s rights advocate, called for child abduction to be included in the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act. She also stressed the need to reform Nigeria’s legal system so that cases like Leah’s can be handled faster and justice can be served. According to her, stronger laws and policies can help prevent future abductions.
Hassan Taiwo Soweto, a social activist, spoke about the power of raising awareness and public campaigns in getting the government to take action. He urged civil society groups and organizations to work together to push for Leah’s release. He also called on President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to take serious steps to bring Leah home.

Ifenla Oligbinde, an advocate for inclusion, demanded that government at all levels must do more to faciliate Leah’s release. She acknowledged the impact of NGOs however she reminded that the real change must come from the government. Sharing her own experience with violence, Ifenla stressed the importance of talking openly about the issue and giving survivors the support they need to heal.

Gbayisomore Ayorinde Olusola, founder of Education Watch, criticized the government for not having emergency plans to protect schools from attacks. With 20 years of experience in education, he noted that he had not seen any proper measures put in place to keep students safe. He urged authorities to take immediate action to protect schools across the country.

Leah Sharibu remains a symbol of strength, but her captivity is a reminder that more needs to be done to ensure she is rescued and the insecurity in Nigeria eliminated for the safety of women and girls.

Victor Agboola
Women Radio 91.7
news@wfm917.com