Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has called for a unified national response to Nigeria’s growing security threats, saying the boldness and scale of recent criminal activities demand urgent and collective action.
The call was made on Monday during the IGP’s sympathy visit to Niger State Governor, Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago, according to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim.
During the visit, Egbetokun described the abduction of pupils and teachers of St. Mary’s Catholic Schools, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area as “troubling and heartbreaking.” He noted that Niger State lies at the centre of evolving security challenges and must receive the priority attention it deserves.
He revealed that security agencies, especially the Nigeria Police Force, are leading the rescue operations and have so far recovered 50 of the abducted children. To reinforce the mission, the IGP said additional tactical teams and intelligence assets have been deployed across the state, assuring that the police will not allow criminal elements to succeed in their “cruel agenda.”
Egbetokun also commended the Niger State Government, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders for their continued support, while urging deeper collaboration to ensure the safe return of all remaining victims.
Governor Bago, in his remarks, appreciated the IGP and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their swift intervention. He praised the efforts of security agencies and confirmed that more recoveries have been made, expressing optimism that every abducted child would be rescued, insisting that “no life is worth missing.”
He urged citizens to remain calm, resolute, and prayerful, warning that the nation’s democracy and sovereignty are under threat and must be collectively defended to restore peace and prosperity.
