President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed that the Federal Government will not relent in its efforts until victims of the latest mass abduction in Niger State are rescued and reunited with their families.
The President, while condemning the abduction and killing of innocent residents, directed the nation’s security and intelligence agencies to immediately commence a coordinated operation to secure the release of those still in captivity.
Tinubu gave the directive to the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The President described the attack as a “cowardly” assault on defenceless Nigerians and vowed that those responsible would be brought to justice.
“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 said.
The President expressed sympathy with families who lost loved ones in the attack, praying for the repose of the deceased and strength for those mourning.
“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 sought to reassure families whose relatives remain in captivity, pledging that the government would deploy all necessary resources to secure their safe return.
“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.
To ensure sustained attention to the rescue mission, the President directed the Service Chiefs to brief him regularly on developments until all the abducted persons are accounted for.
The directive underscores the administration’s determination to mount a coordinated security response to the latest attack and prevent criminal elements from exploiting security vulnerabilities in affected communities.
Tinubu further declared that the activities of terrorists and other criminal groups would not intimidate the government or weaken its resolve to protect Nigerians.
“Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life,” he stated.
The President also expressed solidarity with the Niger State Government and residents, assuring them that the Federal Government would provide necessary assistance for recovery, relief and additional 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,” Tinubu said.
