Ndume Seeks Rescue Of Borno Abductees After Oyo Victims’ Release

The senator representing Borno South Senatorial District, Ali Ndume, has appealed to the military and other security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue scores of people still being held by kidnappers in communities within his constituency.

Naija News reports that Ndume made the appeal on Friday while reacting to the release of pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The victims regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity, sparking celebrations among their families and residents across the country.

While commending the Federal Government and security agencies for securing the safe return of the Oyo abductees, the lawmaker said several victims from Borno South remained in captivity.

Ndume disclosed that 42 people abducted from the Mussa community had yet to regain their freedom.

He added that more than 30 residents of Lassa, including students preparing for or sitting the National Examinations Council examinations (NECO), were also still being held by their captors.

According to the senator, over 50 people from Gwoza remained in captivity, despite the release of some victims from a larger group of about 400 people who had been abducted earlier.

He also raised concerns over the continued detention of travellers kidnapped along the Biu route.

“I want to use this opportunity to appeal to the military to shift their attention now to my senatorial district to help us get our people back,” Ndume said.

The former Senate Chief Whip said families of the abducted victims were experiencing severe emotional distress due to the prolonged absence of their loved ones.

He said the situation was particularly troubling in Mussa, where some of those being held were young children.

Despite the ongoing security challenges, Ndume expressed confidence in the country’s security agencies’ ability to rescue the victims and tackle criminal activity.

He, however, said security personnel required better equipment, training, ammunition and motivation to operate effectively.

“I have confidence in the Nigerian security agencies. I have said several times that all they need are encouragement, training, equipment, ammunition and motivation,” he said.

The senator called for sustained military operations across affected communities in Borno South until the abducted residents were rescued and reunited with their families.