From Segun Amure, (The New Diplomat’s Abuja Bureau)
President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday issued a stern warning to terrorists and bandits targeting schools, saying the country will not allow the destruction of the school system.
President Buhari’s warning to bandits was contained in a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu.
Buhari, who reacted to the invasion of the Federal College of Forestry Mechanization, Afaka, Kaduna, by gunmen on Friday, commended efforts by the Kaduna State government and the early response of the military which led to the rescue of 180 abductees including students and eight staff members. He said others who are still missing would be found and returned safely to their families.
In addition, he also applauded efforts and contributions of local intelligence in significantly thwarting the activities of the kidnappers.
President Buhari expressed sympathy with the victims of the kidnapping and hoped for an early end to the ordeal of those still held captive.
His statement reads, “A country which has an efficient local intelligence network is a safer country.
“Our military may be efficient and well-armed but it needs good efforts for the nation’s defence and the local population must rise to this challenge of the moment.”
