Tinubu hails the rescue of 15 NYSC members and six other Nigerians abducted in Kogi State as security forces continue the search for their kidnappers.
President Bola Tinubu has praised security agencies following the rescue of 15 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and six other Nigerians abducted in Kogi State last week.
The 21 victims were rescued on Monday afternoon from a kidnappers’ den in the forests of Ofu Local Government Area after a coordinated Search and Rescue operation involving the military, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilantes.
NYSC Members Rescued After Kogi Abduction
The victims were among travellers attacked along the Aloma-Egane Expressway in Ofu LGA on August 26.
The Kogi State Police Command had earlier confirmed that armed men emerged from the bush and blocked two buses near the Ogene Zaria/Onicha-Igo Junction. Eleven victims were initially rescued during an earlier operation, while efforts continued to locate those still in captivity.
The military later confirmed that the full group of 21 victims had been rescued. They comprised 15 NYSC members and six other Nigerians, with eight males and 13 females among those recovered.
According to Tinubu, the rescued victims were receiving medical attention before being reunited with their families.
The NYSC members had reportedly been travelling after completing their orientation activities in Bayelsa State when they were caught up in the attack.
Tinubu Commends Security Forces
Reacting to the development, Tinubu expressed relief over the safe recovery of the victims and commended the personnel involved in the operation.
The President said the rescue demonstrated the importance of cooperation among the military, police, DSS and local security support.
He also acknowledged the families of the abducted Nigerians for their patience during the ordeal.
Tinubu said the rescued corps members and other victims were receiving medical attention and assured parents and relatives that his administration remained committed to their safety.
Kogi Kidnappers Remain On Security Forces’ Radar
Although the victims have been rescued, the operation has not ended. Tinubu said security forces were still pursuing the kidnappers and directed the agencies involved to maintain pressure on criminal elements responsible for the abduction.
He also warned that those responsible for the crime, including anyone who assisted them, would face the law.
The President further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making it possible for Nigerians to travel across the country without fear.
Rescue Renews Concern Over NYSC Safety
The Kogi incident has again drawn attention to the risks faced by corps members travelling between states. The initial attack along the Aloma-Egane route and the subsequent rescue operation have also highlighted the importance of intelligence sharing and cooperation among security agencies when dealing with kidnappings in difficult terrain.
Earlier in the incident, police and other security personnel carried out search operations that led to the recovery of 11 victims. The subsequent operation brought the number of rescued people to 21.
For the families involved, however, the immediate priority is the safe return of their loved ones.
The rescued NYSC members and the six other victims are expected to complete their medical evaluation before being reunited with their families.
Security agencies, meanwhile, are continuing efforts to locate the fleeing suspects.
Tinubu’s response came as relief spread following the successful operation, while the renewed pursuit of the kidnappers signals that authorities intend to continue the investigation beyond the rescue.
The President ended his message by reaffirming his commitment to the safety of corps members and other Nigerians.
The rescue brings a welcome outcome to a worrying episode, but it also keeps attention on the wider security challenges facing travellers on major routes across the country.
