The Federal Government has made it clear that no ransom was paid for the safe return of the 137 pupils who were abducted from Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State.
While speaking on behalf of the president, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this declaration following the Federal Executive Council meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Idris underscored the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to ensuring the security and safety of all citizens, especially vulnerable citizens like schoolchildren.
The Minister also extended gratitude to the security services for their role in the successful rescue operation, emphasizing President Tinubu’s determination to hold accountable all those involved in the abduction.
The kidnapping incident, which occurred on March 6, had drawn widespread condemnation both domestically and internationally. The UN children’s welfare agency UNICEF also expressed its concern over the safety of the abducted pupils.
Clarifying previous reports, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated on Sunday that 137 pupils were indeed rescued without ransom, contrary to earlier claims of 287. The successful rescue operation was a result of a collaborative effort between the military and local authorities in Zamfara State.
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Meanwhile, amidst the turmoil, Kaduna-based Muslim cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, had offered to engage in dialogue with the abductors. Responding to questions regarding the government’s stance on engaging with Sheikh Gumi, Minister Idris reiterated the government’s commitment to exploring all constructive avenues to address security challenges.
However, he also cautioned against any statements that could potentially exacerbate the situation, emphasizing that no individual, including Sheikh Gumi, is above the law.
As the nation breathes a collective sigh of relief over the safe return of the abducted children without payment of ransom, the focus now shifts towards ensuring justice for the perpetrators and implementing measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
