CAN to FG: We celebrate Zainab Aliyu’s freedom, but don’t forget Leah Sharibu

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Northern State chapter, has congratulated the parents of Zainab Aliyu for her release from Saudi Arabia detention.
The apex Christian body, which decried the unjust imprisonment of innocent Nigerians who have suffered harsh punishment for offences they have not committed, also congratulated the Federal Government for the role it played in Zainab’s release.
The Christian body, however, argued that the Chibok Secondary School girl, Leah Sharibu, who has been in Boko Haram captivity since last year, also deserves to be rescued, noting that President Muhammadu Buhari should treat all Nigerians equally.
“We should not celebrate Zainab Aliyu’s release and forget Leah Sharibu,” the association says.
CAN made this view known through a statement by the Public Relations Officer, Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph Hayab.
It reads:
“CAN Northern states rejoices with the parents of Zainab Aliyu and the government of our country for securing her release after she was arrested and detained in Saudi Arabia for allegations of drug trafficking.
“It is sad that many innocent Nigerians are suffering for a crime they know nothing about.
“This prompt effort by government is commendable and should be sustained for all and in the future, because this is what we want to see from our leaders in this country.
“But as we rejoice about this development, we are also compelled to ask this important question: Are all Nigerians equal or some are more equal than others?
“We are aware that many innocent citizens of our country have been arrested, some killed and others are still in detention; but we have not heard any directives from Mr. President to his Attorney General to take action about them with this kind of urgency.
“If we want our citizens to be proud of their government and country, then we need to show equal concern about what happens to everyone in this country.
“We cannot also celebrate the release of Zainab and forget Leah Sharibu who did not commit any crime but has been in captivity for over a year now.
“We, therefore, appeal to President Buhari to direct his security agencies to double their efforts and get Leah released and reunited with her parents.
“Leah, too, wants to enjoy the protection of her leaders”.