The Nigerian military has pledged to rescue over 200 schoolchildren who were recently abducted by bandits in Kaduna State. Major General Edward Buba,
the Director of Defence Media Operations, made this commitment during a press conference in Abuja, where he provided updates on the Armed Forces’ activities over the past two weeks.
General Buba reiterated the military’s unwavering commitment to rescuing all kidnapped victims unharmed. However, he expressed concern over the failure of school owners to promptly report cases of abduction to security agencies, which he described as a contributing factor to the abduction crisis.
During the press conference, General Buba also addressed the recent kidnapping of internally displaced persons in Gamboru-Ngala, Borno State, attributing it to their disobedience to camp instructions. He noted that the victims left the camp in search of firewood without informing camp officials, making them vulnerable to abduction.
The abduction of 287 students in Kaduna State has sparked widespread concern and condemnation. President Bola Tinubu has instructed security agencies to apprehend the kidnappers and rescue the students, emphasizing that his government will not negotiate or pay ransom for their release.
Muhammad Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, reaffirmed the President’s stance during a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja. He emphasized that the current government is committed to stamping out kidnapping, particularly mass abductions, and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.