Insecurity: Tinubu orders total security cordon of Kwara, Niger, Kebbi forests

As the search for kidnapped schoolchildren continues, President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday ordered a total security cordon over the forests in Kwara, Niger, and Kebbi states, following recent activities of kidnappers and terrorists in the affected areas.

The bandits had kidnapped over 300 schoolchildren and their teachers from St. Mary Catholic School in Niger State, while 51 of the children later escaped and were reunited with their parents.

Read also: FG confirms US partnership to combat terrorism, banditry

This occurred a few days after a similar kidnapping at a government school in Kebbi, where 24 girls were taken by bandits.

After receiving regular briefings on Tuesday, the President directed the Nigerian Air Force to expand its air surveillance across the innermost parts of the forests in Kwara State, where it is believed the terrorists are hiding.

Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Communications, in a statement on his X handle, said the President also directed the security operatives to maintain a 24 hour surveillance and link up with the booths on the ground.

According to him, “This order equally applies to the Kebbi and Niger States axis where many are expected to be rescued.”

The President urges communities not to hesitate to “provide timely information about strange movements and activities to aid the work of the security forces.”

Details later.

Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date