By Nkechi Eze
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has reassured displaced residents of Kurmin Wali and the general public that concerted efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue and reintegration of all victims abducted from the community.
In an official statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the military acknowledged the fears and concerns expressed by affected families over the pace of rescue efforts, stressing that the plight of the kidnapped victims remains a top operational priority for the Armed Forces.
According to the statement, contrary to claims suggesting a reduced or stalled response, the AFN, working closely with other security agencies, has continued to conduct sustained, intelligence-driven operations within Kurmin Wali and adjoining forested areas believed to be hideouts of the kidnappers. These efforts, the military explained, are carefully coordinated and ongoing.
Major General Onoja disclosed that the operations involve a combination of intensive ground patrols, surveillance missions, intelligence gathering and targeted actions deliberately structured to locate the perpetrators and secure the release of the captives without exposing them to further danger. He emphasized that every operation is guided by the overriding objective of preserving the lives and safety of the victims.
The Armed Forces further acknowledged the anguish, anxiety and emotional strain being endured by the families of the abducted persons. The statement explained that what may sometimes appear as restraint or silence is, in many cases, a calculated operational decision aimed at preventing unintended harm to the hostages. While operational details cannot be disclosed for security reasons, the AFN assured that significant efforts are underway to dismantle the criminal networks responsible for the abductions.
Reaffirming its constitutional mandate, the Armed Forces of Nigeria reiterated its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property, assuring that it remains resolute in its determination to reunite the kidnapped victims of Kurmin Wali with their families.
The military also appealed to the public for continued patience, support and cooperation as operations progress, expressing confidence that collective resolve and sustained engagement will ultimately lead to a successful outcome.
