…vows terrorists’ll not go scot-free
President Bola Tinubu has directed an immediate rescue operation following the recent mass abduction of worshippers in Niger State.
This was disclosed by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a State House statement on Tuesday.
Tinubu described the attackers as “enemies of peace and enemies of humanity,” assuring Nigerians of the Federal Government’s commitment to securing the safe return of the abducted victims.
“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.
Tinubu expressed condolences to the families of those killed in the attack, praying for the repose of the victims’ souls and strength for 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,” he affirmed.
The President directed the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and other relevant security and intelligence agencies to launch a coordinated rescue operation to free the abducted victims.
Tinubu further vowed that Nigeria would not bow to acts of terrorism, saying, “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 added.
Terrorists had invaded a mosque in Gidan-Zana, Kpenya village, Dekara District, Borgu Local Government area of Niger State, abducting worshippers during Jumat prayers.
The terrorists reportedly stormed the Kpenya Mosque at about 2pm and began abducting worshippers.
Children and women, including the elderly, were among those reportedly abducted, while some residents fled into a nearby forest to escape.
The attackers were also said to have abducted the village head of Ka’ada, who had recently been released from their den, as well as the 90-year old father of the District Head of Dekar.