President Tinubu Reacts to Security Breakthroughs in Kwara and Niger
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed satisfaction with recent security developments involving the rescue of abducted worshippers in Kwara State and the escape of students in Niger State. The president described these events as significant indicators of progress in Nigeria's ongoing battle against insecurity.
Dual Security Incidents: Church Attack and School Abduction
Last week witnessed two major security breaches that shook the nation. In Kwara State, armed bandits stormed the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke Isegun, in Eruku during a religious service. The violent attack resulted in the death of at least three worshippers and the abduction of dozens more.
Simultaneously, in Niger State, gunmen targeted St. Mary's Catholic School in Papiri, abducting more than 300 pupils and 12 teachers. The coordinated attacks highlighted the persistent security challenges facing various regions of Nigeria.
Rescue and Escape Operations Yield Positive Results
According to official statements, security forces successfully rescued all 38 worshippers who had been abducted from the Kwara church. The operation marked a significant achievement for Nigerian security agencies operating in the region.
In a separate development, 51 students from the Niger State Catholic school managed to escape from their captors. The students have since been reunited with their families, though many remain in captivity, prompting continued rescue efforts by security forces.
President Tinubu, reacting through his official X (formerly Twitter) account, emphasized that these developments demonstrate renewed commitment in Nigeria's war against banditry and terrorism. He stated: "Thanks to the efforts of our security forces over the last few days, all the 38 worshippers abducted in Eruku, Kwara State have been rescued."
Presidential Commitment and Public Reaction
The president revealed that he had canceled his scheduled trip to the G20 Summit in South Africa to personally monitor national security coordination. This decision underscores the administration's prioritization of Nigerian lives over international engagements.
Public reaction to these developments has been mixed. While some Nigerians praised Tinubu's decisive posture and leadership during the crisis, others expressed frustration about the need for preventive measures rather than reactive rescue operations.
Social media platforms reflected the divided public sentiment. One user commented: "This is how a President is supposed to act. No hiding behind statements, no pretending the situation isn't serious." However, another user questioned: "Mr President, the real leadership test is preventing these kidnappings and killings in the first place."
Security agencies continue to intensify efforts to rescue the remaining victims still held by the attackers. The incidents have reignited national conversations about security infrastructure and the need for comprehensive strategies to protect citizens across Nigeria.
