Atiku Hails Rescue of 360 Borno Abductees, Urges Action for Those Still Held Captive

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has welcomed the rescue of 360 people abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State, describing the operation as a significant breakthrough and a source of relief for victims and their families.

The rescue was carried out by troops of Operation HADIN KAI, who successfully freed the abductees from the Mandara Mountains, a known terrorist enclave in southern Borno. The victims had been kidnapped during a Boko Haram attack on a military base in Ngoshe.

Reports indicated that the insurgents overran the military facility, destroyed operational vehicles, forced security personnel to retreat, killed several people, and abducted numerous residents during the assault.

Reacting to the development in a statement shared on his X account on Monday, Atiku expressed happiness over the successful rescue mission, noting that it had ended months of suffering and uncertainty for the victims and their loved ones.

He said the rescue brought closure to the painful ordeal the abductees had endured since they were taken in March. However, he warned that the country continues to face serious threats from terrorism and banditry.

Atiku commended the military and security agencies involved in the operation, praising their commitment and coordination in securing the victims’ freedom.

The former Vice President also expressed confidence in the ability of the Nigerian Armed Forces to defeat insurgency if provided with adequate resources, modern equipment, and effective political leadership.

While celebrating the rescue, Atiku stressed that many Nigerians remain in captivity and should not be forgotten. He called on the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of nearly 100 pupils and teachers reportedly abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State and Mussa community in Borno State, as well as other victims being held by terrorists and bandits across the country.

He further renewed his call for comprehensive reforms of Nigeria’s security system, advocating a strategy that prioritises intelligence gathering, advanced technology, and preventive measures capable of stopping attacks before they occur.

According to Atiku, Nigeria must move away from a largely reactive security approach and adopt proactive measures that can effectively tackle terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.

He maintained that although the rescue of the Ngoshe abductees represents a major success in the fight against insecurity, sustained military operations, stronger intelligence networks, and strategic reforms are essential to ending the security challenges confronting the nation.