President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and all relevant security and intelligence agencies to launch a coordinated rescue operation immediately for the victims of the recent mass abduction in Niger State.
Tinubu issued the order in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy saying the abductors will not go scot-free, assuring the victims that they are not alone, as the government will do everything to rescue and reunite them with their families.
The president also expressed outrage over the abduction and killing of innocent citizens by criminal elements in the state, saying his administration will do all in its powers to defend Nigerians from terrorists, adding that “terror” will not be allowed to win.
“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.
“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.
The President directed the Service Chiefs to give him regular briefings on the progress of the rescue operation until all those abducted are 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.”
The magazine had reported gunmen seized numerous worshippers during Friday prayers at a mosque in Dekera village (Borgu Local Government Area, the violent raids also resulted in dozens of deaths, including 42 villagers killed during an assault on the Kasuwan Daji community/market area.
The terrorists later released the video of the abductees, which has now gone viral, drawing serious outrage from not a few Nigerians.








