The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar, has welcomed the rescue of 360 people abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State. The operation, conducted by the Nigerian military under Operation HADIN KAI, brought an end to months of uncertainty for the victims and their families.
“I am elated at reports of the rescue of 360 persons who were abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State,” Atiku said in a statement on his X handle on Monday. “Even as this brings to an end the ordeal of the abductees and the anguish of their loved ones since they were abducted in March, we are still faced with threats from terrorism and banditry attacks.”
Commending Security Agencies
Atiku commended the military and other security agencies for their role in the successful rescue, noting that the coordinated efforts of troops and intelligence operations were key to the outcome.
“I acknowledge the role of the military and all other security agencies that were involved in the safe rescue of the Ngoshe abductees,” he stated. He added that with proper equipment and strong political support, the armed forces could bring an end to nearly two decades of insurgency in the region.
“I am confident that if provided with the necessary tools and much-needed political leadership, the military will bring to an end the nearly two decades of insurgency,” Atiku said.
Call for Continued Action
While praising the success of the rescue, Atiku urged the government and security agencies not to relent in their efforts. He highlighted other ongoing abductions, including schoolchildren and teachers reportedly kidnapped in Oriire, Oyo State, and Mussa, Borno State.
“Even as we savour this rescue, I urge the government and the military to intensify efforts to rescue nearly 100 school children and teachers abducted in Oriire, Oyo State and Mussa, Borno State and all other Nigerians still in the custody of terrorists and bandits,” he said.
Security Reforms and Preventive Measures
The former vice president also stressed the need to reform Nigeria’s security architecture. He called for greater emphasis on intelligence gathering, technological integration, and preventive measures to counter terrorist and banditry threats before they escalate.
“More importantly, I call for a rejig of our security architecture that places emphasis on intelligence, technology and preemptive actions that nips in the bud terrorist and banditry attacks before they are carried out,” Atiku added.
