he world must not forget Leah
Lord Alton of Liverpool – To ask Her Majesty’s Government what representations they have made, if any, to the government of Nigeria about the condition and wellbeing of Leah Sharibu.
[HL12130]
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon – The Government condemns the appalling abduction of the Dapchi school girls in 2018 and the ongoing captivity of Leah Sharibu by Islamic State West Africa (ISWA). We remain deeply concerned for the welfare of Leah and all those held by terrorist groups in Nigeria. Following the attack, the then Foreign Secretary spoke to the Nigerian Vice President to express condolences and discuss UK assistance. We have repeatedly called for the release of all those abducted by Boko Haram and ISWA, including Leah Sharibu, and remain committed to supporting the Nigerian Government to secure their release. The Nigerian Government has provided assurances that they are doing all they can to secure the release of Leah and all other abductees held by terrorist groups in Nigeria. President Buhari issued a statement in February 2020, reiterating his Government’s commitment to securing the release of all children and captives of terrorists and to bringing Leah home safely. We will continue to engage with the Nigerian Government in support of urgent action to secure the return of Leah Sharibu and all abductees. The Government is committed to helping Nigeria tackle the threat posed by the terrorist groups in North East Nigeria. We are providing a comprehensive package of humanitarian and stabilisation assistance to Nigeria to help tackle the threat and support affected communities.
