President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed security agencies to intensify the hunt for the kidnappers responsible for the abduction of 21 Nigerians, including 15 NYSC members, rescued in Kogi State.
The victims were rescued on Monday from a kidnappers’ hideout in the forests of Ofu Local Government Area following a coordinated Search and Rescue operation involving the military, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and local vigilantes.
The rescued group comprised eight males and 13 females, according to the President.
While welcoming the successful operation, Tinubu warned that the rescue would not mark the end of the security agencies’ efforts, as troops and other personnel continued to pursue the fleeing criminals.
The President said those behind the abduction, as well as individuals who aided or facilitated the crime, would be made to face the full weight of the law.
Tinubu also directed security and intelligence agencies to sustain operations aimed at dismantling kidnapping networks and preventing similar attacks on travellers and corps members across the country.
The development comes as concerns over the safety of Nigerians travelling through parts of the country continue to mount, particularly following the abduction of the NYSC members and other road users.
The President said his administration remained committed to creating an environment where Nigerians could move freely across the country without fear of abduction or other forms of criminal attacks.
The rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention before being reunited with their families, while security personnel continue efforts to track down the remaining members of the kidnapping gang.
Tinubu also commended the security personnel and local vigilantes involved in the operation for their courage and coordination, while acknowledging the patience of the victims’ families during the period of uncertainty.
The latest operation highlights the increasing reliance on joint security operations involving military, police, intelligence personnel and local actors in the fight against kidnapping in Nigeria.
