Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have rescued two kidnapped victims during a coordinated offensive operation in Lau Local Government Area of Taraba State.
Key Highlights
- Pastor David Ibiyeomie has urged the Nigerian government to prioritize insecurity and economic hardship over restrictions on public preaching.
- The Salvation Ministries founder described the reported move to restrict Christian evangelism in public buses as unacceptable.
- He argued that Christians have a constitutional right to preach the gospel freely.
- Ibiyeomie criticized the government’s handling of widespread killings and poverty, saying these issues deserve greater attention.
- He also accused some religious leaders of remaining silent because of their financial relationships with politicians.
The rescue operation, carried out in the early hours of Sunday, July 26, 2026, followed credible intelligence that armed kidnappers had attacked Tashan Musa and Barkindan Fulani villages in the Lande Jessi area, abducting two residents and making away with food items.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Umar Muhammad, troops immediately launched a targeted search-and-rescue mission across the affected communities.
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The operation led to the successful rescue of the victims, identified as Mr. Usman Mohammed and Mr. Usman Harusu, who had reportedly spent about one week in captivity before regaining their freedom.
Commander of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, praised the troops for their swift response, professionalism and determination, describing the successful rescue as a testament to the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Taraba State.
He said the operation was in line with the directive of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, to intensify efforts against kidnapping and other criminal activities while restoring lasting peace across the country.
Akaliro urged troops to sustain the ongoing offensive against criminal elements and remain vigilant in denying kidnappers and other armed groups freedom of movement within their operational area.
He also assured residents of the Nigerian Army’s continued commitment to safeguarding law-abiding citizens and called on members of the public to support security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence to aid ongoing operations.
