President Bola Tinubu has publicly expressed a state of depression following two devastating security incidents: the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State and the killing of soldiers, including a Brigadier General, in Borno State.
Presidential Response and VP's Mission
In a decisive move, President Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to Kebbi State on Wednesday. The VP's mission is to personally sympathize with the state government and, crucially, to assure the parents and guardians of the kidnapped schoolgirls that the federal government is committed to securing the swift and safe return of their children.
This directive was confirmed in an official statement released by the President's spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga. The President also sent his heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian military, mourning the loss of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other gallant soldiers who lost their lives while actively combating insurgents in Borno State.
Intelligence Warnings and Security Lapses
President Tinubu revealed a particularly distressing aspect of the Kebbi abduction: it occurred despite prior intelligence warnings of a potential strike by the bandits. He decried the security breach that led to the regrettable kidnapping of the girls from their boarding school in Maga, Kebbi State.
While acknowledging the unfortunate outcome, the President commended Governor Mohammed Nasir Idris for the efforts already made by the state government to avert the kidnapping incident.
A Call for National Cooperation on Security
Emphasizing that security is a collective responsibility, President Tinubu made a strong appeal to communities across Nigeria, especially those in regions facing security challenges. He urged citizens to actively share information and intelligence with security agencies, including the military, the police, and the Department of State Services (DSS), to help make their communities safer.
"The security forces cannot perform optimally without the support of Nigerians and local communities," the President stated, underscoring the vital link between public cooperation and operational success.
In his direct words, the Commander-in-Chief said, "As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I am depressed with the tragic death of our soldiers and officers on active duty. May God comfort the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes. I am also depressed that heartless terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have directed the security agencies to act swiftly and bring the girls back to Kebbi State."
He concluded with a powerful plea: "Our security forces cannot succeed in protecting us if the people don't cooperate and share information that will help them keep our communities safe. I urge community leaders and our compatriots across the country, especially those in the theatres of operations, to share useful information. Your cooperation is crucial in our fight against these security challenges."
