By Victor Akaa.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), Thursday announced the release of Dr. Ganiya Nurudeen Popoola, and Master Folaranmi Abdul Mughiy, who were abducted from their home at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna on September 27, 2023.
Major General Edward Buba, Director Defence Media Operations in a statement said the release was facilitated through non-kinetic efforts by the Nigerian military troops at around 1700hrs on October 30, 2024.
The abduction incident had also taken Squadron Leader Nurudeen Abiodun Popoola, Dr. Ganiya’s husband, who was rescued by troops on March 8, 2024. The hostages were released after 10 months in the kidnappers dane.
General Buba noted that despite initial challenges in securing the release of Dr. Ganiya and Master Folaranmi, the military’s persistent efforts have finally yielded positive results.
He said this breakthrough is indicative of the willingness of some terrorist leaders and their combatants to surrender to the troops, a trend also observed in the North East region.
General Buba averred that the military views this development as a welcome step towards ending the insecurity plaguing the nation.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasized that more details about the development will not be revealed due to the ongoing operations.
“Though the details of their release by the terrorists remain classified due to ongoing operations. It is significant to state that their release is indicative of overtures by several terrorists leaders and their combatants to surrender to troops,”he explained.
Meanwhile, terrorists have been offered a window of opportunity to surrender or face the consequences on the battlefield.
Enugu Reporters gathered that this significant achievement underscores the military’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
The statement reaffirms the resolve of the military to combating terrorism and protect Nigerian citizens. Ending insecurity requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, beyond military action.
