By Audu Ibrahim, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed relief over the successful rescue of 21 Nigerians abducted last week by criminal elements in Kogi State.
The rescued victims comprise 15 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and six other innocent and law-abiding Nigerians.
In a statement, President Tinubu said the victims were safely rescued on Monday afternoon following a well-coordinated Search and Rescue (SAR) operation conducted by a combined team of personnel from the military, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilantes.
The 21 abductees, comprising eight males and 13 females, were rescued from a kidnappers’ hideout in the forests of Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The President disclosed that the rescued corps members and other victims are currently receiving medical attention before being reunited with their families.
While commending the security forces for the successful operation, President Tinubu directed them to sustain the pressure on the fleeing kidnappers and ensure that those responsible for the abduction are brought to justice.
“Those responsible will face the full weight of the law, and our security agencies will pursue everyone who aided this crime,” the President said.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that Nigerians can travel across the country without fear, while assuring parents and loved ones of NYSC members that the government remains committed to protecting their lives and property.
He also commended the combined Search and Rescue team for their courage and dedication, while appreciating the families and loved ones of the abducted persons for their patience and understanding throughout the ordeal.
“As I share in the relief and joy of the parents and loved ones of the rescued individuals, I want to once again assure parents and loved ones of our dedicated corps members that my administration remains committed to ensuring the safety of their lives and property, as well as those of other Nigerians,” President Tinubu said.
The President concluded by saluting the men and women of Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies for their service and dedication to national security.
