President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security and intelligence agencies to immediately commence a coordinated operation to rescue victims of the recent mass abduction in Niger State.

The directive was contained in a statement issued Tuesday by the President’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, in which Tinubu condemned the abduction and killing of innocent citizens by criminal elements in the state.

Describing the attack as cowardly, the President branded the perpetrators “enemies of peace and humanity” and expressed condolences to the families of those killed.

Tinubu prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls and assured affected families that the Federal Government would not relent until all abducted persons were safely rescued and reunited with their loved ones.

“Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life,” the President said.

The President also directed the Service Chiefs to provide him with regular updates on the rescue operation until all victims are accounted for.

He further assured the Niger State Government of the Federal Government’s full support for recovery and relief efforts, as well as strengthened security measures in the affected communities.