President Bola Tinubu has ordered an immediate rescue operation following the mass abduction of worshippers in Niger State.
This was disclosed by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement issued by the State House on Tuesday.
Tinubu described the attackers as “enemies of peace and enemies of humanity” and assured the victims’ families that the Federal Government would work to secure the safe return of those abducted.
“Those who carried out this cowardly attack on defenceless Nigerians are enemies of peace and enemies of humanity, who will not go scot-free.
“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.
“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.
Tinubu also vowed that Nigeria would not bow to terrorism
“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.”
It was reported on Friday that terrorists invaded a mosque in Gidan-Zana, Kpenya village, Dekara District, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, during Jumat prayers and abducted worshippers.
The attackers reportedly stormed the Kpenya Mosque at about 2 pm and began abducting worshippers.
Children, women and elderly people were among those reportedly taken, while some residents fled into a nearby forest to escape.
The attackers also reportedly abducted the village Head of Ka’ada, who was recently released from their custody, as well as the 90-year-old father of the District Head of Dekara.
