Atiku Commends Military, Calls for Intensified Security Efforts
The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar, has welcomed reports of the successful rescue of 360 persons abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State, describing the development as a significant relief for victims and their families.
The rescue operation was carried out by troops of Operation HADIN KAI in the Mandara Mountains, a known stronghold for insurgents in the southern part of Borno State. The military intervention led to the safe recovery of hundreds of abductees who had been held captive since their abduction in March.
The incident followed a deadly attack by Boko Haram terrorists on a military base in Ngoshe, during which operational vehicles were destroyed, security personnel were reportedly killed, and several residents were taken hostage.
Reacting to the development in a statement shared on his official X handle on Monday, Atiku expressed his relief over the outcome of the operation, noting that it marked the end of months of uncertainty and anguish for the victims and their loved ones.
“I am elated at reports of the rescue of 360 persons who were abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State,” he said. “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.”
The former Vice President commended the efforts of the Nigerian military and other security agencies involved in the operation, acknowledging their role in ensuring the safe return of the victims.
“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.
Atiku further expressed confidence in the capacity of Nigeria’s armed forces to overcome the persistent security challenges facing the country, particularly insurgency in the North-East, if adequately supported.
“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,” he added.
Despite the successful rescue, Atiku stressed that much work remains to be done, urging the Federal Government and security agencies not to relent in their efforts to secure the release of other Nigerians still being held captive by terrorists and bandits across the country.
He specifically referenced the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, and Mussa in Borno State, calling for urgent action to ensure their safe return.
“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.
Atiku also used the opportunity to call for comprehensive reforms to Nigeria’s security architecture, emphasizing the need for a more proactive and intelligence-driven approach to tackling insecurity.
According to him, there is an urgent need to prioritise intelligence gathering, deploy modern technology, and adopt preventive strategies that can stop attacks before they occur.
“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,” he stated.
The rescue operation in Ngoshe is seen as a major boost for ongoing counterinsurgency efforts in the North-East, even as concerns persist over the frequency of attacks and abductions in different parts of the country.
Security analysts have continued to stress the importance of sustained military pressure, improved intelligence coordination, and stronger political will in addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
While the successful operation has brought hope to affected families, many Nigerians are still waiting for similar breakthroughs that will lead to the safe return of their loved ones and the restoration of peace in troubled regions.
