‘Bandits Pushing Their Luck’ – Buhari On Abuja-Kaduna Train Captives

President Muhammadu Buhari says efforts were ongoing to ensure safe return of captives being held by bandits who attacked the Abuja-Kaduna train.

Buhari said he had directed security agencies and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to provide more regular and detailed information to families.

The President said the government would explore every opportunity to secure the captives, alive and unhurt.

The Nigerian leader gave the assurance when he received some FCT residents at State House on Sallah homage Monday,

“Many families are in a state of fear and anxiety on account of the many captives held by terrorists against their will, including those taken away after the tragic bombing of the Abuja – Kaduna train.

“I have directed security agencies to ensure quick and safe recovery of all victims of kidnapping.

‘I urge the railway management to immediately set up a situation room for the coordination of the rescue mission and for a minute by minute engagement with the families of the captives.

“This should ease their pain and anxiety as we push the military to find a safe return to their families. My aim is to see all those in captivity safely rescued.”

Buhari said the bandits “are just pushing their luck, but this is only for a while before they are finally crushed.”

He told the visitors that the enemies are using civilians as human shields, thereby making it difficult to confront them directly.

The President added that bandits don’t respect the rules of engagement and could resort to harming hostages when attacked.

Buhari said a stronger synergy between security agencies and communities will make a huge difference in defeating banditry and terrorism in the country.