FG hails rescue of 21 abducted Nigerians, including 15 NYSC members

The federal government has announced the rescue of 21 Nigerians, including 15 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), who were abducted by suspected kidnappers in Kogi State.

The victims, comprising eight males and 13 females, were rescued on Sunday afternoon following a coordinated search-and-rescue operation by security agencies.

President Bola Tinubu, in a statement via his X account on Monday, said the operation was conducted by a combined team of the military, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilantes.

The victims were rescued from the kidnappers’ hideout in the forests of Ofu Local Government Area of the state.

According to the President, the rescued corps members and other victims are receiving medical attention before they are reunited with their families.

Tinubu said security forces remained on the trail of the fleeing kidnappers, adding that those responsible for the abduction would face the full weight of the law.

“While the abductees have been safely rescued, our gallant security forces are still on the trail of the routed kidnappers, in line with my directive to sustain the pressure on all criminal elements,” he said.

The President also said security agencies would pursue anyone who aided the abduction.

He commended the security personnel involved in the operation for their courage and praised the families of the abducted persons for their understanding during the ordeal.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of Nigerians and enabling citizens to travel across the country without fear.

“As I share in the relief and joy of the parents and loved ones of the rescued individuals, I want to once again assure parents and loved ones of our dedicated corps members that my administration remains committed to ensuring the safety of their lives and property, as well as those of other Nigerians,” he said.