The Federal Government declared on Wednesday that it would stand firm against paying any ransom for the release of the over 280 students and staff members abducted from Government Secondary School and LEA Primary School in Kuriga, Kaduna State, on March 7th.
Speaking to State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reiterated President’s stance of zero tolerance towards ransom payment. He emphasized that the government would not negotiate with criminal elements and assured that security agencies were tirelessly working towards their safe release.
This statement comes in the wake of Kaduna-based cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi’s offer to engage in dialogue with the abductors. The terrorists, after invading Kuriga in Chikun Local Government Area, shot at their targets before abducting the students and teachers from both schools. Locals mentioned that the secondary section had been moved to the primary school due to security concerns.
The United Nations had also confirmed the abduction of over 200 internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Ngala Local Government Area of Borno State. UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, disclosed that the victims, including women, boys, and girls, were taken while collecting firewood. Gumi, advocating for negotiation to secure the release of the abducted schoolchildren, urged the President to grant him the opportunity to negotiate.
Despite the offer, the government remained resolute, echoing the President’s directive for security agencies to ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals without paying any ransom. The government also acknowledged international support, including from the United States, in the rescue efforts.
President Tinubu, condemning the abductions, directed security agencies to prioritize the rescue mission. He assured Nigerians of ongoing efforts to bring back the victims safely and promised decisive action against the perpetrators. Tinubu expressed sympathy towards the families of the victims, promising their swift reunion.
