General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has alleged that certain individuals are attempting to undermine the government’s initiatives to combat insecurity in the country. During a recent ceremony where he transferred 58 rescued kidnapping victims to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for formal handover to the Kaduna State Government, Musa emphasized the need for a collective societal effort to effectively tackle insecurity.
The 58 victims, who were rescued through a coordinated operation led by Major General MLD Saraso, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 1 Division in Kaduna, were initially handed over to Ribadu by CDS Musa. The NSA then passed the victims, including men, women, and children, to Alhaji Sani Liman Kila, the Chief of Staff to the Kaduna State Governor, who represented Governor Uba Sani at the event.
In his remarks, Musa stated, “This achievement is a result of our collaborative efforts. We utilized non-kinetic strategies to secure the release of these individuals without any ransom being paid. It is crucial for Nigerians to recognize that our success hinges on unity and collective action.”
He highlighted the vulnerability of the victims, questioning the motives behind targeting such defenseless individuals, particularly farmers. Musa asserted that there are forces actively working against the government’s success in addressing insecurity, stating, “These actions are deliberate attempts to sabotage our efforts, but we will not allow that to happen.”
Musa further explained that the operations involve both kinetic actions carried out by the military and non-kinetic efforts that require the involvement of all citizens. He praised the support from the governor and various agencies, noting, “This collaborative approach has been instrumental in rescuing these individuals.”
He reiterated the importance of a unified front in the fight against insecurity, urging all Nigerians to take ownership of the initiative.
Additionally, Major General Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, revealed that initial investigations indicated the victims were abducted by armed bandits led by a notorious figure known as JANBROS. He detailed that the victims were forced to trek long distances into the dense forests of Birnin Gwari during their captivity.
The government has provided necessary support for the victims’ stabilization, including rehabilitation and medical care. Six of the victims required hospitalization but have since recovered and were present for the handover to their families. Sani Limankila, the Chief of Staff to the Kaduna State Governor, expressed appreciation for the efforts of the security agencies involved.
