President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the rescue of 21 Nigerians, including 15 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), who were abducted in Kogi State.
The victims, comprising eight males and 13 females, were rescued from a kidnappers’ hideout in the Egume-Ochaja forest in Ofu Local Government Area of the state.
The rescue operation was announced on Monday by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, who said a combined team of security personnel successfully recovered the victims.
The operation involved personnel from the Nigerian military, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilantes.
Reacting to the development, Tinubu expressed relief over the safe recovery of the abducted corps members and other victims, describing their release as welcome news.
In a statement posted on his official 𝕏 account, the President said the rescued Nigerians were receiving medical attention and would be reunited with their families after necessary care.
He also commended the security personnel involved in the operation and acknowledged the patience of the victims’ relatives throughout the period of uncertainty.
Tinubu said the rescue was in line with his administration’s directive to maintain sustained pressure on criminal groups operating across the country.
He disclosed that security agencies were still pursuing the kidnappers who fled after the operation, insisting that those behind the abduction would be made to face the law.
The President said: “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 Manhunt Continues
He explained that the victims were rescued during a coordinated search-and-rescue operation in the forest, adding that their immediate priority was their health and eventual reunion with their families.
Tinubu further assured Nigerians that his government would continue working to create an environment where citizens can travel across the country without fear of abduction or attack.
The President also extended his appreciation to the families of the victims for remaining patient during what he described as a difficult ordeal.
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Meanwhile, security forces have reportedly continued their pursuit of the kidnappers following the successful rescue operation.
Tinubu warned that not only the perpetrators but also individuals who assisted or facilitated the crime would be targeted by security agencies.
The President said his administration remained committed to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians, particularly young people serving the country through the NYSC scheme.
The rescue comes amid renewed concerns over the safety of Nigerians travelling through parts of the country, with security agencies facing continued pressure to rescue other citizens held by criminal groups.
Tinubu concluded by commending the men and women of Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies for their efforts and prayed for the nation.