President Bola Tinubu has directed the armed forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and other relevant security and intelligence agencies to immediately commence a coordinated operation to rescue victims of the recent mass abduction in Niger State.

The directive followed the abduction and killing of innocent residents by criminal elements in the state, with the President expressing outrage over the attack.

Tinubu condemns attack

In a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the President described those behind the attack as enemies of peace and humanity who would not be allowed to escape 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 condolences to families who lost loved ones in the attack and prayed for strength for those mourning their relatives.

He also assured families whose loved ones were abducted that the Federal Government was committed to securing 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.

Service chiefs to brief President

Tinubu directed the Service Chiefs to provide him with regular briefings on the progress of the rescue operation until all the abducted victims are accounted for.

The directive places the security agencies under pressure to coordinate their efforts and intensify operations aimed at locating the victims and bringing them home safely.

The President’s order comes amid renewed concerns over attacks, abductions and killings by criminal groups operating in parts of the country.

‘Terror will not cow Nigeria’

Tinubu vowed that his administration would continue to defend citizens and communities against terrorists and other criminal elements.

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

The President said his prayers were with the people of Niger State at what he described as a difficult period, while assuring residents that the Federal Government stood firmly with the state government.

FG promises support for Niger

Tinubu further pledged that the Federal Government would provide necessary support to assist the state in its recovery efforts following the attack.

He said the support would cover relief, recovery and security reinforcement as authorities work to restore safety and stability in affected communities.

The President’s directive is expected to lead to increased security operations in areas affected by the mass abduction, with agencies required to work together to locate the victims and apprehend those responsible.

The government has also reiterated its commitment to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians, while assuring affected families that efforts would continue until the abducted citizens are accounted for.