President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered security and intelligence agencies to launch an immediate rescue operation following the abduction of dozens of residents in Niger State’s Borgu Local Government Area.
The attack occurred on Friday when unidentified gunmen surrounded a mosque during weekly prayers in the Dekara community and led worshippers away through a bush path. Police have confirmed that an unspecified number of people were taken, though the exact figure remains unclear.
President Tinubu expressed outrage over the attack, describing it as a cowardly assault on defenceless citizens.
“Those who carried out this attack on worshippers are enemies of peace and enemies of humanity, who will not go scot-free,” the President said.
He extended his condolences to families who lost loved ones in the assault and assured them of the nation’s support.
“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 said.
The President has directed the Service Chiefs to provide regular briefings on the progress of the rescue operation until all those abducted are accounted for.
“Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life,” Tinubu said.
The rescue effort faces significant challenges, as authorities have reported that a collapsed bridge linking the main town with the affected community, combined with difficult terrain and poor road conditions, is hampering security operations.
The President reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the Niger State Government with all necessary resources for recovery, relief, and security reinforcement.
Niger State has experienced repeated violent attacks in recent years, including banditry and kidnapping, as Nigeria continues to battle terrorism, abduction, and other security challenges across its northern and central regions.
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