Atiku Hails Rescue of 360 Abductees in Borno

The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has commended the rescue of 360 persons abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State, describing the development as a major relief for victims and their families.

The rescue was carried out by troops of Operation HADIN KAI following an operation in the Mandara Mountains, a known hideout for insurgents in southern Borno State.

The victims were reportedly freed after a coordinated military operation targeting terrorist positions linked to a deadly Boko Haram attack on a military formation in Ngoshe.

During the initial assault, insurgents were said to have overrun a military base, destroyed vehicles, scattered personnel, and abducted several civilians.

Security sources said the rescue marks a significant breakthrough in ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the region, though the military has not yet released full operational details.

Reacting via a statement on his X account, Atiku expressed relief over the return of the abductees, noting that their ordeal had lasted several months since the March attack.

He praised the military and other security agencies involved in the rescue operation, saying their coordination was key to its success.

Atiku also urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of other Nigerians still in captivity, including schoolchildren and teachers reportedly abducted in parts of Oyo and Borno States.

“Even as we savour this rescue, I urge the government and the military to intensify efforts to rescue nearly 100 school children and teachers abducted in Oriire, Oyo State and Mussa, Borno State and all other Nigerians still in the custody of terrorists and bandits,” he said.

He further called for reforms in Nigeria’s security architecture, stressing the need for stronger intelligence gathering, technology-driven policing, and preventive strategies to curb future attacks.

According to him, while the rescue of the Ngoshe abductees is a welcome development, sustained action and structural reforms remain essential to ending insecurity in the country.