President Bola Tinubu has ordered Nigeria’s security forces to launch an immediate, coordinated operation to rescue the victims of a recent mass abduction in Niger State.
The presidential directive followed a series of violent raids carried out by bandits targeting remote communities in the Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, including an assault on worshippers during Friday prayers at a mosque in Kpenya village.
Available information from local sources indicated that between 60 and 80 residents were forcefully taken into captivity, with several others sustaining gunshot injuries while attempting to escape.
Reacting, President Tinubu expressed outrage over the abduction and killing of innocent citizens by criminal elements in the state.
He ordered the armed forces, the police, the Department of State Services, and all relevant security and intelligence agencies to pool intelligence and deploy immediate rescue resources.
The President, in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, said: “Those who carried out this cowardly attack on defenceless Nigerians are enemies of peace and enemies of humanity, who will not go scot-free.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the families of those who were killed in this barbaric assault and pray that Almighty God grant them eternal rest, and grant their loved ones the fortitude to bear this painful loss.
“You are not alone. The entire nation shares your anguish. We will not rest until your sons, daughters, mothers and fathers are brought back safely to you,” he said.
President Tinubu directed the Service Chiefs to give him regular briefings on the progress of the rescue operation until all those abducted are accounted for.
“Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life.
“My prayers are with the people of Niger State at this difficult time. The Federal Government stands firmly with the State Government and will provide all necessary support to aid recovery, relief, and security reinforcement,” he said.
