Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has commended the rescue of 360 persons abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State, describing the development as a relief for the victims and their families.
In a statement, Atiku praised the military and other security agencies involved in the operation, noting that the successful rescue brought an end to months of uncertainty and anguish following the victims’ abduction in March.
“I acknowledge the role of the military and all other security agencies that were involved in the safe rescue of the Ngoshe abductees,” he said.
Despite the rescue, the former presidential candidate warned that terrorism and banditry remain major security threats across the country.
He expressed confidence that the armed forces could end the nearly two-decade insurgency if provided with adequate equipment and strong political leadership.
“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,” Atiku stated.
He also called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of nearly 100 schoolchildren and teachers reportedly abducted in Oriire, Oyo State, and Mussa, Borno State, as well as other Nigerians still being held by terrorists and bandits.
Atiku further advocated a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security architecture, stressing the need for greater reliance on intelligence gathering, technology and proactive measures to prevent 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 nip in the bud terrorist and banditry attacks before they are carried out,” he said.
