By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News
(Worthy News) - Christians worldwide demand the release of a young woman held captive for more than three years by Islamic militants in Nigeria because she refuses to renounce her faith in Christ.
Leah Sharibu celebrated her 18th birthday in captivity last week, May 14, watched by fighters of the Boko Haram terror group.
“Originally kidnapped in February 2018, along with 109 other students from a girls' school in Dapchi, Nigeria, Leah has held to her Christian faith,” noted rights group Voice Of the Martyrs Canada (VOMC).
Five of the abducted girls reportedly died, and the other 104 were released a month after being abducted. Several of those released revealed that Leah refused to "cooperate" by converting to Islam.
Various reports have leaked over the past three years, indicating that Leah is still alive.
Worthy News earlier reported that she gave birth to a second child within a year of being forced into marriage to a Boko Haram commander.
“Despite assurances from Nigeria's President [Muhammadu Buhari] that everything possible will be done to rescue Leah and the many other remaining kidnapped victims, they continue to be held in captivity,” composited VOMC.
“This includes the students of another previously reported incident, as over 100 girls from the Chibok school likewise remain missing, more than seven years after their abduction.”
There are cases in which the kidnapped victims have been sold into sexual slavery, several sources said.
“Please continue to uphold Leah and the other surviving victims in your prayers,” said VOMC in a statement to supporters. “May the Lord give them and their distraught families the strength needed to endure and remain hopeful.”
The group stressed it hopes the “kidnapped girls will continue to experience the reassuring presence of Christ,” and they will be reunited with third families. Christ’s “unfailing love has undoubtedly been sustaining them throughout the years of their captivity.”
It was also crucial to pray for “wisdom” for the government and others involved in locating the missing and securing their release, VOMC said.