Tinubu Orders Rescue Amid Mass Kidnapping in Niger State

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has directed the launch of a rescue operation following a mass kidnapping incident at a mosque in north-central Niger State. The order came Tuesday. It responds to the abduction of approximately 600 women, children, and elderly individuals, as reported by local residents. Authorities are currently working to verify the exact number of missing individuals, according to Obed Nana.

The kidnapping took place last week. It has been described as potentially one of the largest in Nigeria if the numbers are confirmed. An armed group has reportedly posted a video online showing the abductees, though Reuters has not independently verified the claims of 600 missing persons.

During the attack, 30 people lost their lives. These victims were laid to rest on Sunday, according to a Borgu district official. The affected communities include Dakera, Gidan-Zana, and Sabon Gida. President Tinubu condemned the act as cowardly in response to the attack and vowed that those responsible would face justice. "Terror will not cow Nigeria," Tinubu declared, further asserting his commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice.

President Tinubu has instructed security chiefs to provide regular updates on the situation. The attack has also forced at least 2,000 people to flee to the neighboring Benin Republic, as reported by Abubakar Umar.

Mass abductions for ransom have become increasingly common in Nigeria. Heavily armed criminal gangs frequently target villages, schools, and highways. These gangs often hold captives for extended periods, demanding large ransoms for their release. A growing threat to the region. The operations of such gangs have expanded beyond their traditional areas.