Tinubu Orders Immediate Rescue Operation After Niger Mass Abduction

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and other security and intelligence agencies to launch an immediate coordinated operation to rescue victims of the recent mass abduction in Niger State.

The directive followed the President’s condemnation of the abduction and killing of innocent citizens by criminal elements in the state.

Tinubu, in a statement on Tuesday, August 25, by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the attack as a cowardly assault on defenceless Nigerians.

“Those who carried out this cowardly attack on defenceless Nigerians are enemies of peace and enemies of humanity, who will not go scot-free,” the President said.

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He expressed condolences to families of those killed in the attack and prayed for strength for their loved ones to cope with the loss.

“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,” Tinubu said.

The President assured families of the abducted victims that the Federal Government would deploy all necessary resources to secure their release.

“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.

Tinubu also directed the Service Chiefs to provide him with regular updates on the rescue operation until all those abducted had been accounted for.

He vowed that the latest incident would not weaken the government’s resolve to protect Nigerians and their communities.

“Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life,” the President said.

Tinubu expressed solidarity with the people and government of Niger State, assuring the state of Federal Government support for recovery, relief efforts and security reinforcement.

“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.