…As Ondo hunters rescue Abuja-bound travelers from kidnappers
By Ayo Fadimu
President Muhamma du Buhari has assured Nigerians that last Friday’s abduction of female students from Government Girls Science Secondary School, Jangebe, will be the last to happen.
The president’s statement was relayed on Sunday, through Minister of Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika, who led a high-powered federal government delegation to sympathise with the people and government of Zamfara.
He said new measures had been developed by the federal government which would bring complete end to all forms of criminality in the nation.
“The President is saddened by the abduction of the students from Jangebe and reassures you that the government has all the resources and wherewithal to contain these criminals.
“Buhari also commended Gov. Bello Matawalle of Zamfara’s efforts against armed banditry and promised a continued support to bringing lasting peace.
“The federal government will continue its partnership with Zamfara government and its citizens in resolving the security challenges facing the state,” Buhari said.
In his response, Gov. Matawalle appreciated Buhari and the federal government’s concern, noting that very soon the abductees would regain their freedom.
“I strongly believe in the president and his effort in fighting all forms of insurgence and urge him to improve on the nation’s security.
“This is by ensuring synergy among the security agencies so that confrontations with criminals can be coordinated on ground and air simultaneously,” the governor said.
Other members of the delegation were the Minister of Police Affairs, Alhaji Maigari Dingyadi, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hajiya Sa’adiya Umar-Faruk and Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Pauline Tallen
In a related development, brave hunters and rescue team in Akunu Akoko in Akoko North East local government area of Ondo State, have killed a suspected kidnapper and rescued seven kidnapped victims.
Our Correspondent gathered that the hunters stormed the forest on the orders of the Regent of the town, Princess Tolani Orogun, after news filtered in that some travellers were abducted.
Princess Tolani informed the hunters and warned that youths that continued kidnapping in the axis must stop, ordering them to go after the hoodlums.
It was in the course of combing the forest that one of the suspected kidnappers was gunned down while others fled leaving their victims behind.
Police area commander for Ikare Akoko, ACP Razak Rauf who confirmed the report said remains of the suspect has been deposited in mortuary.
Witnesses said the travellers were heading towards Abuja when they were abducted and taken into the bush.
Several persons have been kidnapped along the Akunu, Ikakumo and Auga of Ondo State.
Chairman of Akunu Akoko community, Mr. Ade Aboginije, urged the state government to increase security presence in the area being a boundary town with Edo and Kogi States.