IGP Disu Gives Fresh Order To Rescue Abducted Worshippers In Niger

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has ordered security operatives in Niger State to intensify efforts to rescue worshippers abducted during an attack on communities in the Dekara District of Borgu Local Government Area.

Disu gave the directive on Saturday during a working visit to the state, where he assessed the security situation and reviewed ongoing operations aimed at locating the victims and securing their safe release.

The IGP also conveyed the condolences of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to the Niger State Government, affected communities and families of the abducted worshippers.

He assured them that the safe rescue of the victims and the arrest and prosecution of those behind the attack remained key priorities for the police.

Disu was received at the Niger State Government House by the Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, who represented Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago. The state Commissioner for Homeland Security, Maurice Magaji, was also present.

During the meeting, the IGP commended the state Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Elleman, for the command’s response to the incident and the prompt submission of situation reports.

He also acknowledged the Niger State Government’s continued support for the police, particularly its provision of operational vehicles, renovation of Armoured Personnel Carriers and efforts to improve the welfare of police personnel.

Addressing officers and men of the Niger State Police Command, Disu directed them to maintain intelligence-led and professionally coordinated operations focused on rescuing the abducted worshippers and preventing further attacks on vulnerable communities.

According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the IGP emphasised that the safety of the victims and residents must remain central to every decision taken during the rescue operation.

Disu assured the command that the Force Headquarters would continue to provide the necessary support, particularly in logistics, mobility, intelligence gathering, training and other areas required to boost operational effectiveness.

He also instructed the command to strengthen cooperation with other security agencies and deepen engagement with local communities.

The IGP stressed that closer collaboration with traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders and other stakeholders would be critical to obtaining timely and credible intelligence that could help prevent attacks and accelerate rescue efforts.

Speaking during the visit, Deputy Governor Garba praised Disu for travelling to the state to personally assess the security situation and reinforce efforts to secure the release of the abducted worshippers.

Garba reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting the police and other security agencies in protecting residents, restoring peace and ensuring the safe return of the victims.

As part of his visit, Disu also met with the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Dr Umar Farouk Bahago.

The IGP expressed his condolences to the emirate over the incident and called for stronger cooperation between traditional institutions and security agencies.

The meeting focused on intelligence gathering, community engagement and measures to restore lasting peace and security across Niger State.

The police assured residents that operations to rescue the abducted worshippers, protect vulnerable communities and apprehend those responsible for the attack would continue until the objectives are achieved.