President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security and intelligence agencies to immediately commence a coordinated operation to rescue victims of the recent mass abduction in Niger State.
The President, in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Presidency, condemned the attack in the strongest terms, describing the abduction and killing of innocent Nigerians as a barbaric act that must not go unpunished.
“I have directed the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and all relevant security and intelligence agencies to launch a coordinated rescue operation immediately for the victims of the recent mass abduction in Niger State,” Tinubu stayed.
Expressing outrage over the incident, the President vowed that those behind the attack would face the full weight of the law.
“I am outraged by the abduction and killing of innocent citizens by criminal elements in the state.
“Those who carried out this cowardly attack on defenceless Nigerians are enemies of peace and enemies of humanity, who will not go scot-free.”
Tinubu also sympathised with the families of those who lost their lives during the attack, praying for strength and comfort for the bereaved.
“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.”
Addressing the families of those still in captivity, the President assured them that the Federal Government would not relent until every victim was safely reunited with loved ones.
“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.”
To ensure close monitoring of the rescue effort, Tinubu disclosed that he had instructed the nation’s military leadership to keep him regularly informed on developments.
“I have also directed the Service Chiefs to give me regular briefings on the progress of the rescue operation until all those abducted are accounted for.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, the President declared that terrorism would never be allowed to prevail in Nigeria.
“Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life.”
He further assured the people of Niger State that the Federal Government would work closely with the state government to strengthen security and provide all necessary assistance to affected communities.
“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.”
The President’s directive comes amid renewed concerns over insecurity in parts of Niger State, where criminal gangs have continued to target communities through abductions and deadly attacks. The Federal Government says security agencies have been mobilised to secure the safe return of the abducted victims and restore confidence in the affected communities.
