President Bola Tinubu has ordered the military, the police, and the Department of State Services (DSS) to track down and apprehend those responsible for the attack on Kasuwan Daji community in Niger state.
In a statement on Sunday, Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, said the president also directed security agencies to urgently rescue all victims abducted during the attack.
Tinubu gave the directives following the killing of 42 villagers in Niger state by terrorists suspected to be fleeing from Sokoto and Zamfara after the United States air strike on Christmas eve.
Women and children were also abducted during the attack on Kasuwan Daji.
The president extended condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Niger state.
“These terrorists have tested the resolve of our country and its people. They must, therefore, face the full consequences of their criminal actions,” the statement reads.
“No matter who they are or what their intent is, they must be hunted down.
“They, and all those who aid, abet, or enable them in any form, will be caught and brought to justice.”
He assured residents of Niger state that security agencies have been mandated to intensify operations around vulnerable communities, especially areas close to forests used as hideouts by criminal elements.
The president urged Nigerians to remain united and resolute, warning against divisive rhetoric that could undermine national security and cohesion.
“These times demand our humanity,” he added.
“We must stand together as one people and confront these monsters in unison.
“United, we can and must defeat them, deny them any sanctuary. We must reclaim the peace and security of these attacked communities.”
