President Buhari issues directives on rescuing Abuja/Kaduna train victims

-O. Adejo
President Muhammadu Buhari has directed increased efforts toward rescuing kidnapped railway passengers still in custody and bringing the case to a close as the government continues to review the issue of kidnapped railway passengers and makes all efforts to trace and bring back the 51 or more still being held in custody.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, rescue efforts are taking a two-track approach, kinetic and non-kinetic, to ensure the captives’ safe release.
Shehu stated that the kidnappers demanded the release of their children and that once that issue was resolved, they released eleven of the victims, although more were expected.
He stated that the government is not leaving any stone unturned in its efforts to return all hostages and that the Defense, Security, and Intelligence Agencies have pledged to increase operational engagements aimed at restoring peace in all parts of the country.
He added that the federal government is also mindful of the patriotic and influential individuals and institutions who are assisting in the safe release of the hostages.
President Buhari welcomed the return of recently released passengers to their families and loved ones, while also expressing his solemn commitment to the families of those still held captive, promising that there will be no let-up until they are reunited with their families as soon as possible.
“The President has stated unequivocally that the hostages must be returned alive.” The country’s military and security agencies are aware of their responsibilities to the nation and are determined to carry out the President’s directive with vigour.