Nigeria's Rescue of Kidnap Victims Shows Anti-Terror Progress

The Nigerian Presidency, represented by Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, stated that the recent rescue of 13 kidnap victims in Benue State is indicative of Nigeria's progress in the anti-terrorism war. The victims, including several young individuals, were abducted while traveling for a tertiary matriculation examination.

The rescue operation, part of a broader military initiative, took place on April 19, following a series of operations across multiple states, including Plateau, Borno, Sokoto, and Imo. Onanuga criticized the media for attributing the attack to Fulani bandits without proper verification, suggesting that local criminal elements were responsible.

He noted that the Nigerian Armed Forces have made significant strides in combating insecurity, which often goes unacknowledged. Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia met with the rescued victims, urging the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board to reschedule their examinations due to the trauma experienced.

The article also mentions ongoing military operations that have led to the arrest of suspects and the recovery of weapons in various states.