Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has welcomed the reported rescue of 360 persons abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State, describing the development as a major relief for the victims and their families.
The rescue operation, carried out by troops of Operation HADIN KAI and other security agencies, led to the freedom of hundreds of captives who had been held by insurgents in the Mandara Mountains, a known stronghold of terrorist groups in southern Borno.
The victims were reportedly abducted following a deadly attack on Ngoshe, where Boko Haram fighters raided a military formation, set operational vehicles ablaze, forced security personnel to retreat, killed several people, and took numerous residents hostage.
Reacting to the development in a statement shared on his X account on Monday, Atiku expressed delight over the successful operation and commended the security forces for their efforts.
“I am elated at reports of the rescue of 360 persons who were abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State,” the former Vice President stated.
He noted that the rescue marked the end of months of suffering and uncertainty for the victims and their relatives, who had endured the trauma of the abduction since March.
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According to Atiku, the operation offers renewed hope to families affected by terrorism and highlights the importance of sustained security efforts in regions plagued by insurgent activities.
Despite celebrating the success, he warned that the broader security challenge facing the country remains far from over. He stressed that terrorist attacks, banditry, and kidnappings continue to pose serious threats to communities across Nigeria.
The ADC presidential candidate therefore called on security agencies and government authorities to intensify efforts toward securing the release of other Nigerians still being held captive by terrorists, bandits, and criminal groups.
Atiku further praised the military and all security personnel involved in the rescue mission, noting that their dedication and professionalism contributed significantly to the successful outcome.
He urged the authorities to build on the momentum generated by the operation and strengthen ongoing counter-terrorism efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in affected parts of the country.
The rescue of the abductees has been widely welcomed by Nigerians, with many viewing it as a significant achievement in the fight against insurgency in the North-East. However, security experts continue to emphasize the need for sustained military operations and improved intelligence gathering to prevent future attacks and protect vulnerable communities.
As families reunite with their loved ones, attention is expected to remain on efforts to secure the freedom of other victims still in captivity and to eliminate terrorist strongholds across the country.
