The Nigerian government has emphatically denied reports that ransom was paid to secure the release of the 137 schoolchildren abducted from Kuriga in Kaduna State earlier this month.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, addressed the media at the end of a Federal Executive Council meeting yesterday. He stressed that “in keeping with the commitment of Mr. President, no ransom was paid” for the students’ safe return last weekend.
This statement comes amidst public speculation about the circumstances surrounding the students’ release. Prior to their return, media reports claimed the kidnappers demanded a hefty ransom of N1 billion (approximately $2.2 million).
The veracity of the government’s claim remains a point of contention. Some Nigerians expressed skepticism, questioning how the students were freed without concessions to the kidnappers.
TruthNigeria reported that Abdullah Zabur, a community leader in Kuriga said a lot of negotiations, promises, and offers were made before the hostage takers released the children. “Even if money was not given, the State Government and the Federal Government may have compensated the terrorists through other means,” Zabur said.
Minister Idris further commended the “role of the security services” in securing the students’ freedom. However, he offered no details on the specific operation that led to their release. He concluded by assuring the public that the perpetrators “will be fished out and punished.”
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
