Tinubu orders immediate rescue of Niger abduction victims

Bola Tinubu has ordered the Armed Forces, police and intelligence agencies to immediately launch a coordinated operation to rescue victims of the recent mass abduction in Niger.

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

This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday in Abuja.

Mr Tinubu expressed outrage over the abduction and killing of innocent citizens by criminal elements in the state, describing the attack as barbaric and unacceptable.

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

“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.

The president assured the affected families that the Federal Government remained committed to securing the safe return of their 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,” Tinubu said.

He directed the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and other relevant security and intelligence agencies to work together to secure the victims’ release.

He said the Service Chiefs must keep him regularly informed on developments until every abducted person was accounted for.

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

“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.

The  terrorists had on Friday invaded a mosque in Gidan-Zana, Kpenya village, Dekara District, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger, and abducted scores of worshippers during the Jumat prayers.

NAN