Niger State Government confirmed, on Tuesday, that 136 students were abducted by bandits at the Salihu Tanko Islamic School, Tegina, Rafi local government.
The state deputy governor, Alh. Ahmed Mohammed Ketso confirmed the number while giving an update on the situation, at the Government House, Minna.
He told the parents of the abducted children that the government was doing its best for the safe return of the students and reiterated the readiness of the government to give continued support to the security agencies.
The deputy governor disclosed that the state government had so far provided support to the security agencies including distribution of various operational vehicles.
According to him, “We have so far given 89 operational vehicles, 283 operational motorcycles, 30 bicycles, 4 Tri-cycles in addition to funding the various security operations in the state that include: Karamin Goro, Sharan Daji, Girgizan Daji, Gama Aiki, Ayem Akpatuma I & II, Puff Adder I & II.”
He stated that 70 Nissan Vehicles and 2,300 motorcycles as mobility support had been provided to the vigilance corps in the state.
The Deputy Governor explained that the security agencies were doing their best but did not have enough logistics.
He said intervention from the Federal Government was needed to equip them so that they could confront the bandits.
Hr further pointed out that the security agencies were being careful in the pursuit of bandits to avoid collateral damage.
Meanwhile, the state government has announced a total ban on commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, in Minna, the state capital.
Ketso said the ban was to ensure that the state capital was safe.
He, however, stated that private motorcycles were allowed to operate but with restriction from 9:00 pm to 6:00 am.
The government said that the Okada Riders Association had been informed and that the ban would be strictly implemented.
The Deputy Governor also directed all the Emirs, District Heads and village heads to liaise with local government Chairmen so as to profile all new residents in their domains and to be security sensitive.
Stay ahead with the latest updates! Join The ConclaveNG on WhatsApp and Telegram for real-time news alerts, breaking stories, and exclusive content delivered straight to your phone. Don’t miss a headline — subscribe now!
