President Bola Tinubu has directed the nation’s security chiefs to intensify efforts to rescue victims of the latest mass abduction in Niger State and ensure that every abducted person is accounted for.
The President also vowed that those responsible for the abduction and killing of innocent Nigerians would be brought to justice, describing the perpetrators as “enemies of peace and enemies of humanity.”
Tinubu issued the directive while reacting to the attack, which he described as a “cowardly” assault on defenseless citizens.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President ordered the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, DSS, and other relevant security and intelligence agencies to immediately coordinate their operations to locate and rescue the victims.
He specifically directed the Service Chiefs to intensify the rescue operation and keep him regularly updated on developments until all those abducted have been accounted for.
“Those who carried out this cowardly attack on defenseless Nigerians are enemies of peace and enemies of humanity, who will not go scot-free,” Tinubu said.
The President expressed condolences to the families of those killed in the attack, while acknowledging the anguish of relatives whose loved ones remain in captivity.
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“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,” he said.
Tinubu also assured families of the abducted that the Federal Government would continue working 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.
The President further assured Nigerians that the latest attack would not weaken the government’s determination to confront terrorism and other forms of criminality across the country.
He said the government would continue to protect vulnerable communities and defend the lives and property of citizens.
“Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life,” Tinubu said.
He also assured the Niger State Government of the Federal Government’s support, including measures to strengthen security and provide relief and recovery assistance to communities affected by the attack.
“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 added.
The Sun
