President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the rescue of 21 Nigerians abducted in Kogi State, including 15 National Youth Service Corps members, following a coordinated security operation.
The victims were among those kidnapped last week along the Aloma-Egane axis in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State while travelling from Bayelsa State towards Abuja.
According to the President, the rescued group comprises eight males and 13 females, with 15 of them being NYSC members and six other Nigerians.
The victims were rescued on Monday afternoon after security forces located the kidnappers’ hideout in a forest in Ofu Local Government Area.
The operation involved personnel from the Nigerian military, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and local vigilantes, who worked together during the search and rescue mission.
Tinubu said the security agencies have continued to pursue the kidnappers, who fled the area following the operation.
“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.”
The President vowed that those responsible for the abduction would be brought to justice and that security agencies would also pursue individuals who assisted in the crime.
“Those responsible will face the full weight of the law, and our security agencies will pursue everyone who aided this crime.”
Tinubu said his administration remained committed to ensuring that Nigerians could travel across the country without fear.
The rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention before being reunited with their families.
The President also commended the security personnel who participated in the operation, praising them for their courage and commitment to securing the victims.
“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.”
The rescue follows growing concern over the abduction of NYSC members travelling through Kogi after armed men reportedly attacked vehicles conveying corps members and other passengers.
Earlier reports indicated that some victims had already been rescued, while families of others continued to appeal to the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to locate those still missing.
Tinubu said he shared in the relief of the affected families following the successful operation and assured parents of NYSC members that his administration would continue to work towards protecting their lives and property.
He further commended the personnel of Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies for their role in securing the release of the abducted Nigerians.
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