Yemi Obafemi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies to immediately commence a coordinated operation to rescue people abducted following an attack on worshippers in Niger State.
The directive was contained in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
The President gave the order while condemning the abduction and killing of innocent citizens in the state, directing the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and other relevant security agencies to work together to secure the victims.
The incident occurred at a mosque in Dekara village, Niger State, during Friday prayers, with an estimated 600 people reportedly abducted. The victims are said to include men, women, children and elderly people.
Tinubu described those behind the attack as “enemies of peace and enemies of humanity” and said they would not escape justice.
“Those who carried out this cowardly attack on defenceless Nigerians are enemies of peace and enemies of humanity, who will not go scot-free,” the President said.
He expressed condolences to the families of those killed and assured them of the Federal Government’s commitment to rescuing those abducted.
“You are not alone. The entire nation shares your anguish. We will not rest until your sons, daughters, mothers and fathers are brought back safely to you,” Tinubu said.
The President directed the Service Chiefs to provide him with regular briefings on the progress of the rescue operation until all those abducted are accounted for.
He also assured residents of Niger State that the Federal Government would provide necessary support for recovery, relief and security reinforcement.
“Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life,” he said.
