By Zainab Bakare
Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has welcomed the rescue of 360 persons abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State, calling it a major relief for victims and their families.
The rescue was carried out by troops of Operation HADIN KAI, who freed the victims from the Mandara Mountains, a known terrorist stronghold in southern Borno State.
The operation followed a terrorist attack on a military base in Ngoshe, which led to the destruction of equipment, displacement of personnel, casualties, and the abduction of several residents.
Reacting in a statement posted on his X handle on Monday, Atiku describes the development as a welcome end to months of suffering for the abductees.
“I am elated at reports of the rescue of 360 persons who were abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State,” he said.
He commended the Nigerian military and other security agencies involved in the operation, praising their efforts in securing the victims’ release.
“I acknowledge the role of the military and all other security agencies that were involved in the safe rescue of the Ngoshe abductees,” Atiku stated.
Call for Stronger Security Response
Atiku expressed confidence that Nigeria’s armed forces could defeat insurgency if properly equipped and supported with strong political leadership.
He urged the Federal Government not to relent in efforts to rescue other abducted citizens still in captivity across the country.
He specifically referenced the reported abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, and Mussa in Borno State, calling for urgent action to secure their release.
“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.
Call for Security Reform
The former Vice President also called for reforms in Nigeria’s security architecture, stressing the need for intelligence-driven and technology-based operations.
According to him, proactive measures should be prioritized to prevent attacks before they occur.
“I call for a rejig of our security architecture that places emphasis on intelligence, technology and preemptive actions,” he added.
The rescue of the Ngoshe abductees is one of the largest successful operations in recent months, amid ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity, terrorism, and banditry across Nigeria.
