President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the rescue of 21 people abducted in Kogi State, including 15 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The victims, who were kidnapped last week, included eight males and 13 females. Six other Nigerians were also among those abducted.
Tinubu said the victims were rescued on Monday afternoon following a coordinated Search and Rescue (SAR) operation involving the military, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilantes.
The operation led security personnel to the kidnappers’ hideout in the forests of Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The rescued victims are currently receiving medical treatment before being reunited with their families.
Tinubu said security forces had continued their pursuit of the kidnappers, who fled after the rescue 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. Those responsible will face the full weight of the law, and our security agencies will pursue everyone who aided this crime. My administration remains committed to ensuring that every Nigerian can travel across our country without fear,” he said
The president also praised the security personnel involved in the operation and thanked the families of the victims for their patience and understanding.
“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 President said.
Tinubu said he shared in the relief felt by the families following the rescue and assured parents of NYSC members that his administration would continue working to protect their lives and property.
He also commended the men and women of Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies for their efforts.
Tinubu hails security forces after rescue of abducted NYSC members in Kogi