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By Our Reporter

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has condemned the recent mass abduction and killings in Niger State, describing the attackers as “enemies of peace and enemies of humanity” and ordering a coordinated rescue operation to secure the release of all victims .

In a statement released on Tuesday, the President directed the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and other security and intelligence agencies to immediately launch a joint effort to rescue those abducted in the attack that targeted multiple communities in Borgu Local Government Area .

The assault, which occurred on Friday, August 21, 2026, saw armed men attack the Kpenya Mosque during Juma’at prayers and raid the neighbouring villages of Dekara, Gidan Zana, Sabon Gida, and Masaka . More than 40 people were reportedly killed across the affected communities, while over 100 others were abducted . A local youth leader has claimed the number of those taken could be as high as 500, though this figure is yet to be officially verified .

President Tinubu expressed outrage at the “cowardly attack on defenceless Nigerians” and vowed that those responsible would be brought to justice . He extended his condolences to the families of those killed, stating: “I extend my deepest condolences to the families of those who were killed in this barbaric assault and pray that Almighty God grant them eternal rest, and grant their loved ones the fortitude to bear this painful loss” .

He also delivered a message of hope and solidarity to the families of the abducted, assuring them that the government would not relent until their loved ones are returned safely: “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” .

The President has directed the Service Chiefs to provide regular briefings on the progress of the rescue operation until all those abducted are accounted for . Reaffirming the government’s commitment to security, he declared: “Terror will not cow Nigeria. We will defend our people, protect our communities, and uphold the sanctity of human life” .