President Bola Tinubu has ordered security agents to apprehend terrorists responsible for the attack on Kasuwan Daji community in Niger State.

The president also directed that abducted victims be rescued without delay.

The directive, issued on Sunday, ordered the minister of defence, the chief of defence staff, the service chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Director-General of the State Security Service to immediate swing into action.

This is contained in a statement by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday in Abuja.

Mr Tinubu gave the order following the killing of villagers and abduction of women and children by terrorists suspected to be fleeing from Sokoto and Zamfara states after a United States airstrike on Christmas Eve.

Mr Tinubu strongly condemned the attack on the Kasuwan Daji community, describing it as barbaric and unacceptable.

He expressed condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the government and people of Niger State.

Mr Tinubu said, “These terrorists have tested the resolve of our country and its people. They must, therefore, face the full consequences of their criminal actions. 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.”

Mr Tinubu assured residents of Niger State that security agencies had been mandated to intensify operations around vulnerable communities, particularly areas close to forests used as criminal hideouts.

He said the federal government would not allow criminals to destabilise communities or undermine national security.

The president urged Nigerians to remain united and resolute amid the tragedy, warning against divisive rhetoric that could weaken national cohesion.

Mr Tinubu said, “These times demand our humanity. We must stand together as one people and confront these monsters in unison. United, we can and must defeat them, deny them any sanctuary, and reclaim the peace and security of these attacked communities.”

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property and the territorial integrity of the country.

(NAN)