By Stephen Simon
President Bola Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies to ensure that every victim of the recent mass abduction in Niger State is accounted for, ordering an immediate and coordinated rescue operation.
The President charged the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and other relevant agencies to intensify efforts to trace and rescue all those taken during the attack.
Reacting to the incident, Tinubu condemned the abduction and killings, describing the attackers as enemies of peace and humanity who must be made to face justice.
He vowed that those responsible for the assault on innocent and defenceless citizens would not escape punishment.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President directed the various security agencies to work closely together and deploy all necessary resources towards locating the victims.
Tinubu also instructed the Service Chiefs to provide him with regular updates on the operation, stressing that efforts must not cease until the fate of every abducted person is established.
“The operation must continue until every victim is accounted for,” the President said.
Expressing sympathy with families who lost relatives in the attack, Tinubu described the incident as a barbaric assault and prayed for the repose of the souls of those killed.
He also sought strength and comfort for the bereaved families as they mourn their loved ones.
For families whose relatives remain in captivity, the President offered assurances that the Federal Government would not abandon them, pledging sustained efforts to bring the abducted persons home safely.
According to him, the pain of the affected families was shared by the entire nation, adding that the government would remain committed to securing the release of their sons, daughters, mothers and fathers.
Tinubu further declared that the latest attack would not weaken Nigeria’s determination to confront terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminal violence.
He said the Federal Government remained resolute in its responsibility to protect lives, secure communities and uphold the sanctity of human life.
The President also assured the Niger State Government of continued federal support, including security reinforcement as well as relief and recovery assistance for communities affected by the attack.
He said the Federal Government stood firmly with the people and government of Niger State during the difficult period and would provide all necessary support to help restore security and normalcy.
