President Bola Tinubu has commended security agencies and local vigilantes for rescuing 21 Nigerians, including 15 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, who were abducted by kidnappers in Kogi State.
The victims were reportedly abducted last week before being located and freed on Monday afternoon following a coordinated search and rescue operation in the forests of Ofu Local Government Area.
In a statement posted on his official X account on Monday, Tinubu described the rescue as a welcome development, saying he was relieved that the abducted Nigerians had regained their freedom.
The 21 victims comprised eight males and 13 females.
The President said the rescue operation involved personnel from the military, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilantes who worked together to locate the kidnappers’ hideout.
“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,” Tinubu said.
According to him, the rescued victims were receiving medical attention and would subsequently be reunited with their families and loved ones.
Tinubu, however, warned that the successful rescue had not brought the operation to an end, as security forces were still pursuing the fleeing kidnappers.
He said those behind the abduction, as well as individuals who assisted the criminals, would be made to face the full weight 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,” he said.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a safer environment for Nigerians, particularly those travelling across the country.
“My administration remains committed to ensuring that every Nigerian can travel across our country without fear,” he added.
Tinubu also praised the security and intelligence personnel involved in the operation, while thanking the families of the abducted persons for their patience and understanding during the ordeal.
He specifically assured parents and relatives of NYSC members that the government remained committed to protecting corps members deployed across the country.
“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,” he said.
He concluded by commending members of the nation’s security and intelligence agencies for their efforts in securing the victims.
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