By Mohammed Mohammed
85 days after the Kaduna bound train was attacked in Jere, in Kaduna State, with over 60 passengers held captives by their abductors, President Muhammadu Buhari, has reiterated that government is reviewing the issue of the kidnapped passengers and making all efforts to trace and bring back the 51 or more still being held in custody.
The President has therefore directed increased efforts, deploying: kinetic and non-kinetic to bring the case to a closure.
Mallam Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, in a statement made available to the media, said upon the President’s approval, the government is continuing on the two-lane approach, kinetic and non-kinetic to secure the passengers’ safe release.
According to him, the kidnappers made a demand for the release of their own children and upon the settlement of that issue, they let go eleven of the victims, even though more were expected.
Admitting the setback, he added that government is not leaving any stone unturned in the efforts to bring all of the hostages back.
The Defence, Security and Intelligence Agencies, he said have given assurances to intensify operational engagements geared towards securing the rescue of all hostages and restoring peace to all parts of the country. Government is also mindful of efforts of some patriotic and influential persons and institutions that are helping in securing the safe release of the hostages.
Buhari welcomes the return of the recently released passengers back to their families and loved ones, while expressing his solemn commitment to the families of those still in captivity, assuring that there will be no let-up until they are reunited with their families in the shortest time possible.
The President’s clear directive on the issue is that the hostages must be brought home alive. The country’s military and security agencies are aware of their duty to the nation and are determined to give effect to the President’s charge with increased urgency.
