Ndume urges military to intensify efforts to rescue Borno abductees
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Senator Mohammed Ndume urged the Nigerian military to intensify efforts to rescue abducted schoolchildren and travelers in Borno State.
- Victims have been in captivity for over 100 days, causing significant anxiety among families and communities.
- The Senator commended the military's efforts but stressed the need for greater action due to the prolonged duration of the abductions.
Senator Mohammed Ndume has implored the Nigerian military to escalate its operations for the safe release of schoolchildren and travelers abducted from various communities in Borno State. These individuals have reportedly been held captive for more than 100 days, a situation that has generated considerable anxiety among their families and the wider community.
The appeal, made public via the Senator's official Facebook page, specifically addresses the plight of schoolchildren taken from Mussa and Lassa communities, passengers abducted along the Buratai axis, and remaining victims from Ngoshe in Gwoza local government area. Senator Ndume conveyed his message during a visit to the Headquarters of the Theatre Command, Northeast Joint Taskforce Operation Hadin Kai, in Maiduguri.
While acknowledging and commending the military's persistent efforts in combating insurgency, Ndume emphasized that the prolonged captivity of the victims necessitates intensified rescue operations. He stated, "We know you are making efforts, but because of the anxiety we all share and the length of time these people have remained away from their families, I have to continue to push for greater effort."
We know you are making efforts, but because of the anxiety we all share and the length of time these people have remained away from their families, I have to continue to push for greater effort.
Senator Ndume clarified that his appeal should not be misconstrued as a dismissal of the military's sacrifices and endeavors. Instead, he framed it as a representative's duty to voice the concerns of his constituents and demand necessary action. "Like Oliver Twist, I have come to ask for more for my people," he remarked, underscoring his commitment to advocating for their well-being.
Responding to the Senator's concerns, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abubakar Abdulsalam, assured that the issues raised regarding the abducted victims have been noted. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to ongoing operations aimed at protecting communities, stabilizing affected regions, and facilitating the safe return of those displaced by years of insurgency. The commander attributed the successes achieved in the theater to the support from the Chief of Army Staff.
Like Oliver Twist, I have come to ask for more for my people. It is my moral obligation to commend you when you do well and also bring the concerns of my constituents before you.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.