The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar, has welcomed reports of the rescue of 360 persons abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State, while calling for intensified efforts to secure the freedom of other victims still being held by kidnappers and insurgent groups across the country.
The former Vice President commended the Nigerian military, particularly troops of Operation HADIN KAI, for the successful operation which led to the release of the abductees from the Mandara Mountains, a notorious terrorist enclave located in the southern part of Borno State.
The rescue operation followed months of uncertainty after Boko Haram terrorists reportedly attacked a military base in Ngoshe, setting operational vehicles ablaze, dispersing security personnel, killing an unspecified number of people, and abducting several residents during the assault.
In a statement posted on his X handle on Monday, Atiku described the rescue as a major relief for the victims and their families, many of whom had endured pain, fear, and uncertainty since the abduction took place in March.
He noted that the successful operation demonstrated the courage and resilience of Nigerian troops operating in difficult and dangerous terrains to protect lives and restore hope to affected communities.
According to him, the release of the abductees should serve as renewed motivation for security agencies to intensify ongoing operations against terrorist groups and criminal networks terrorising different parts of the country.
The former presidential candidate also stressed the need for sustained collaboration among security agencies, local communities, and the government to address the root causes of insecurity and prevent further attacks on vulnerable communities.
Atiku stated that while the rescue operation was commendable, many Nigerians remain in captivity across various regions of the country, including victims of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.
He therefore urged the Federal Government and security agencies not to relent in efforts aimed at rescuing those still in captivity and dismantling criminal hideouts threatening national peace and stability.
Political observers say Atiku’s reaction reflects growing national concern over the persistent insecurity confronting several parts of Nigeria, especially the North-East, where insurgent activities have continued despite years of military operations.
The Mandara Mountains, where the rescued abductees were reportedly held, have long been identified as a difficult terrain frequently exploited by insurgents because of its mountainous landscape and proximity to border communities.
Security experts have repeatedly warned that terrorist groups continue to adapt their strategies, making coordinated intelligence gathering and sustained military pressure essential in combating insurgency.
The latest rescue operation has however been widely praised by citizens and stakeholders, who see it as a significant breakthrough in ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in the North-East.
Residents of affected communities in Borno State have continued to appeal for increased security presence and humanitarian support, as repeated attacks have displaced thousands of people and disrupted livelihoods across several local government areas.
The humanitarian impact of insurgency in the region remains severe, with many families still searching for missing relatives while communities struggle to rebuild after years of violence and displacement.
Atiku, in his statement, expressed solidarity with families who are still waiting for news about loved ones in captivity, assuring them that the nation shares in their pain and hopes for their safe return.
He also urged Nigerians to continue supporting the armed forces and security personnel risking their lives daily to defend communities and restore peace across the country.
The successful rescue of the 360 abductees is expected to further boost morale among troops engaged in counter-terrorism operations while renewing public calls for stronger and more coordinated responses to insecurity nationwide.
