By Ayo Ayodele
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered security and intelligence agencies to launch an immediate and coordinated operation to rescue victims of the recent mass abduction in Niger State.
The directive followed attacks on several communities in Borgu Local Government Area of the state, during which scores of residents, including worshippers, were reportedly abducted.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President directed the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and other relevant security agencies to work together to secure the safe release of the victims.
Tinubu condemned the attacks, describing the perpetrators as enemies of peace and humanity, and vowed that they would not escape justice.
The President also expressed condolences to the families of those killed in the attacks, assuring them that the Federal Government would deploy the necessary resources to secure the return of their loved ones.
He said Nigerians affected by the attacks were not alone, assuring them that the government would continue working until the abducted victims were safely rescued.
Tinubu further directed the Service Chiefs to keep him regularly informed about the progress of the rescue operation until all the abducted persons are accounted for.
The attacks reportedly affected several communities in Borgu, including Kpenya, where worshippers were attacked during Friday prayers. Local authorities reportedly put the number of abducted persons at at least 60, although the actual figure could be higher.
The President also assured residents of Niger State that the Federal Government would work with the state government to strengthen security and support communities affected by the attacks.
Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting Nigerians and ensuring that those responsible for the attacks are apprehended and brought to justice.