Tinubu Orders Immediate Rescue Of Niger Mosque Abduction Victims

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate and coordinated rescue operation to secure the release of victims abducted during a recent attack on a mosque in Niger State.

The President directed the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and other relevant security and intelligence agencies to work together to locate and rescue the abductees.

The directive followed the abduction of worshippers during Friday prayers at a mosque in Gidan-Zana, Kpenya village, in the Dekara District of Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.

Tinubu condemned the attack, describing those behind the incident as enemies of peace and humanity.

He expressed condolences to the families of those reportedly killed during the wider attacks in the area and assured affected communities that the Federal Government would not abandon them.

The President said the government would continue its efforts until the abducted Nigerians are safely reunited with their families.

“Terror will not cow Nigeria,” Tinubu declared, stressing that the government would defend citizens, protect communities and uphold the sanctity of human life.

The latest directive comes amid conflicting reports over the number of people abducted in the attack.

Local sources have reported that hundreds of people may have been taken hostage, while security authorities have yet to independently confirm the exact figure. A video circulated online appeared to show a large group of women, children and elderly people in captivity, although the footage and the precise number of victims could not be independently verified.

Earlier reports indicated that the attackers targeted worshippers during Friday prayers before extending their assault to surrounding communities.

The attacks have heightened concerns over the security situation in Borgu and neighbouring communities, with residents fleeing vulnerable areas amid fears of further attacks.

Tinubu has directed security chiefs to provide regular updates on the rescue operation and ensure that every abducted person is accounted for.

The President also pledged the Federal Government’s full support to the Niger State Government, including additional security assistance and other measures required to restore safety and confidence in affected communities.

The development comes as security agencies continue operations in parts of Niger State to track armed groups responsible for the recent attacks and prevent them from moving captives through remote forest routes.

The President’s directive places the immediate priority on locating the abductees, securing their safe release and bringing those responsible for the attack to justice.

As security agencies intensify the search, families of the victims remain anxious over the fate of their loved ones, while communities affected by the violence await concrete results from the rescue operation.