London MEP Jean Lambert has joined hundreds of demonstrators from across the capital at a rally outside the Nigerian High Commission to demand the Nigerian Government steps up efforts to free the 234 girls kidnapped from a school three weeks ago.
Speaking outside the Nigerian High Commission, she said: “The plight of these girls has shocked the world – and rightly so.
“Everyone has a basic human right to education – and to liberty and security. The Nigerian government must guarantee these rights to everyone living in the country, and do all it can to bring these girls home to their families safely.
“As world leaders met in Nigeria this week for the World Economic Forum, latest figures revealed that Nigeria has overtaken South Africa to be the continent’s largest economy: great news for some.
“I have long argued that there should be closer ties between the EU and African nations: but a pre-requisite for this must be upholding the rule of law and internationally-respected human rights.
“This awful kidnapping is just the latest in a long line of security incidents in Nigeria, and the Government must act, not just to bring back these girls, but to guarantee the security of all.”