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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has ordered the nation’s security chiefs to ensure that every victim of the latest mass abduction in Niger State is accounted for, directing the military, police, Department of State Services (DSS) and other security and intelligence agencies to mount an immediate and coordinated rescue operation.
The President also vowed that those behind the abduction and killing of innocent citizens would not escape justice, describing the perpetrators as “enemies of peace and enemies of humanity.”
Tinubu gave the directives while reacting to the mass abduction and killing in Niger State, expressing outrage over what he described as a “cowardly attack” 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.
According to a statement by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, as part of efforts to secure the release of those abducted, Tinubu directed the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the DSS and relevant intelligence agencies to immediately coordinate their operations and intensify efforts to locate and rescue the victims.
He specifically instructed the Service Chiefs to keep him regularly informed of developments, with the rescue operation expected to continue until all those abducted have been accounted for.
Tinubu expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones in the attack and acknowledged the anguish of those still waiting for the return of their relatives.
“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.
He also assured families of the abducted that they were not alone in the crisis, pledging that the government would continue its efforts until their loved ones are brought home.
“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.
The President, while assuring Nigerians that the latest attack would not weaken the country’s resolve to confront terrorism and criminality, declared that the government would continue to defend communities and protect citizens.
“Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life,” he said.
Tinubu further assured the Niger State Government of federal support, including measures aimed at strengthening security and providing relief and recovery assistance to affected communities.
“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 said.
