President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended Nigeria’s security forces for rescuing 15 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and six other Nigerians abducted by gunmen in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The President also directed security agencies to maintain pressure on the fleeing kidnappers and ensure that those responsible for the abduction, including anyone who aided or supported the crime, are brought to justice.
Tinubu made this known in a post on his verified X handle, @officialABAT, following the successful rescue operation.
According to the President, the operation was carried out through a coordinated Search and Rescue (SAR) effort involving personnel of the Nigerian military, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilantes.
The rescued victims, comprising eight males and 13 females, were receiving medical attention before being reunited with their families.
Tinubu expressed relief over the safe recovery of the victims, describing them as innocent and law-abiding Nigerians who were abducted by criminal elements last week.
“I am delighted to receive the news that the fifteen members of the National Youth Service Corps and six other innocent and law-abiding Nigerians abducted last week in Kogi State by some criminal elements have regained their freedom,” the President said.
Security Forces Still Hunting Kidnappers
While celebrating the successful rescue, Tinubu warned that the operation was not over, directing security forces to continue pursuing the kidnappers who escaped into the forest.
He said the government would ensure that those behind the crime face the full consequences of the law.
“While the abductees have been safely rescued, our gallant security forces are still on the trail of the routed kidnappers, in line with my directive to sustain the pressure on all criminal elements.
“Those responsible will face the full weight of the law, and our security agencies will pursue everyone who aided this crime.”
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that Nigerians can travel across the country without fear of abduction or attacks.
Victims Abducted While Travelling to Bayelsa
The 15 NYSC members and six other passengers were reportedly travelling from Abuja to Bayelsa State after completing their orientation programme when they were attacked and abducted last Friday.
The incident triggered a coordinated security response, with security personnel and local vigilantes launching efforts to locate the victims and secure their release.
Tinubu commended the combined rescue team for successfully recovering all 21 victims without loss of life.
“I wholeheartedly commend the combined SAR team for their courage and appreciate families and loved ones of the abductees for their understanding during the ordeals of their loved ones,” he said.
Tinubu Assures Corps Members’ Families
The President also acknowledged the anxiety and distress experienced by the families of the abducted NYSC members and other victims during their period in captivity.
He reassured parents and relatives of corps members across the country that his administration would continue to prioritise their safety.
“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,” Tinubu said.
He further praised the men and women of Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies for their efforts in confronting criminal elements across the country.
The President concluded his message by praying for the nation and its security personnel.
“God bless the men and women of our Security and Intelligence agencies. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The successful rescue brings relief to the families of the 21 abducted Nigerians, while security agencies continue efforts to track down the perpetrators and prevent further attacks along major travel routes in the country.
