Tinubu orders immediate rescue of Niger mass abduction victims

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, and other relevant security agencies to immediately launch a coordinated rescue mission for victims of a recent mass abduction in Niger State. The terrorists targeted worshippers at four mosques during Friday's Jumu'at prayer in Dekara, Kpenya, Sabon-Gida, and Gidan-Zana communities within the Borgu Local Government Area.

Residents reported that the terrorists, arriving in large numbers, simultaneously stormed the mosques while Jumu'at prayers were in progress and took control of the worship centers. Many of the worshippers were led into the forest by the terrorists. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, expressed outrage over the incident, calling the perpetrators enemies of peace and humanity, and promised that they would not go unpunished.

He also extended condolences to the families of the deceased and assured them that the nation shares their anguish and will not rest until the abducted individuals are safely returned.

The President has directed the Service Chiefs to provide him with regular updates on the rescue operation until all victims are accounted for. He emphasized that terror will not prevail in Nigeria and vowed to defend the people, protect communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life. He requested the Federal Government to stand firmly with the State Government and provide all necessary support for recovery, relief, and security reinforcement.