Kebbi schoolgirls rescue: prioritising lives over arrests, says Ex-JTF Commander

A former commander of the Joint Task Force (JTF) has emphasized that in rescue operations involving abducted schoolchildren, saving lives must take precedence over apprehending kidnappers. His comments come in the wake of the recent release of schoolgirls abducted in Kebbi State.

Speaking on Tuesday, the retired officer noted that the immediate focus of security agencies should always be the safe recovery of victims, rather than pursuing criminals in ways that could endanger their lives. “When children are abducted, every action must be guided by the principle of protecting the victims first. Arresting kidnappers is secondary to ensuring that no child is harmed,” he said.

The ex-JTF commander explained that rescue missions require careful planning, intelligence coordination, and restraint to avoid escalating risks to hostages. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between security agencies, local authorities, and community leaders in facilitating successful rescues.

He praised the Kebbi State authorities and security operatives for prioritizing the welfare of the girls during the operation and urged ongoing support for the victims’ rehabilitation and reintegration.

The former commander also called for stronger preventive measures, including improved intelligence networks, community vigilance, and educational awareness to reduce the incidence of school abductions nationwide.

His remarks underscore the delicate balance security forces must maintain between operational success and humanitarian considerations in Nigeria’s fight against kidnapping and insurgency.