President Muhammadu Buhari has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing the safe release of passengers kidnapped during the March 28 Abuja-Kaduna train attack.
Speaking during a Sallah homage event hosted for Federal Capital Territory (FCT) residents in Abuja, the president outlined ongoing efforts to rescue the victims and address Nigeria’s security challenges.
Details of Incident
The attack, which saw bandits abduct numerous passengers, has left families in distress, prompting the government to prioritize their safe return.
Buhari directed security agencies and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to establish a situation room to coordinate rescue operations and provide regular updates to the victims’ families.
He emphasized the need for a cautious approach, noting that the bandits’ use of civilians as human shields complicates direct military confrontation.
The president explained that the government is avoiding aggressive tactics that could endanger hostages, as the primary goal is to ensure their safe and unharmed release.
He described the situation as delicate, requiring wisdom, patience, and strategic planning to avoid tragic outcomes.
The president called on communities to play a vital role in combating banditry by sharing intelligence with security forces.
He urged Nigerians to create a hostile environment for criminals by reporting suspicious activities, warning that shielding such elements endangers public safety.
Buhari stressed that stronger collaboration between citizens and security agencies is essential for defeating terrorism and banditry, emphasizing the importance of human intelligence alongside military efforts.
Addressing broader security concerns, Buhari highlighted progress in weakening terrorist groups like Boko Haram, noting that their ability to seize and hold Nigerian territory has been significantly diminished.
He pointed to the increasing number of surrendering terrorists as a positive development, crediting enhanced equipment and improved welfare for security personnel.
The president assured Nigerians that his administration would not allow bandits to escalate into a threat comparable to Boko Haram, citing substantial investments in security infrastructure.
Buhari also praised the FCT’s improved safety, recalling a time when terrorist attacks, including those on the UN building and Police Headquarters, disrupted life in Abuja.
He commended FCT Minister Mohammed Bello for maintaining the capital’s safety and attractiveness, noting ongoing infrastructure projects like the Abuja Light Rail and the Second Niger Bridge, set for completion in October.
These initiatives, he said, reflect the government’s focus on transforming Abuja into a modern, investor-friendly city despite its rapid population growth.
Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, speaking at the event, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gather after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, describing it as a sign of divine favor.
He thanked Buhari for his leadership in addressing national challenges and prayed for continued strength to overcome them.
FCT Minister Bello echoed these sentiments, noting the diverse representation at the event, including religious leaders, community figures, and lawmakers, and thanked the president for hosting the traditional Sallah homage.
The government’s response to the train attack underscores its broader commitment to enhancing security and infrastructure while addressing the immediate crisis of the kidnapped victims. As efforts continue, the administration is calling for public cooperation to ensure a safer Nigeria.
