Bandits Demand N1bn Ransom for 287 Abducted Pupils and Staff, Set March 27 Deadline
Bandits in Kaduna State have demanded a ransom of N1 billion for the release of 287 students and teachers abducted from LEA Primary School and Government Secondary School in Kuriga. The deadline set for the payment is March 27, 2024.
AKACHI NOEL 
The gunmen, who conducted the kidnapping on March 7, 2024, contacted a spokesperson for the families of the hostages on Tuesday to communicate their ransom demand, as reported by Reuters. Jubril Aminu, acting as the spokesperson, revealed the ultimatum imposed by the bandits during the call.
A community leader, Jubril Aminu, acting as the voice for the hostages' families, stated that the bandits demanded the hefty sum for the release of all the abducted pupils, students, and staff. Failure to meet their demand within the specified timeframe would result in dire consequences, including harm to the captives.
Confirming the ransom demand, Idris Ibrahim, a councillor representing Kuriga Ward, acknowledged the communication from the kidnappers. He emphasized the heightened tension within the community following the revelation, highlighting the inability of the community to meet such a substantial ransom.
Concerns have been raised about the well-being of the abducted individuals, particularly among the parents who are facing immense anxiety and trauma. Additionally, questions arise regarding the identity of the perpetrators, with some attributing the abduction to ISWAP and others linking it to previous incidents of banditry.
Efforts to reach a resolution have been initiated by various stakeholders, including appeals to the Kaduna State Government for assistance. The governor, Uba Sani, has committed to the rescue efforts, engaging with relevant authorities to address the crisis.
Meanwhile, the ongoing spate of kidnappings across the North, involving hundreds of victims, has prompted significant concern and condemnation from both local and national authorities. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has vowed to collaborate with other security agencies to ensure the safe return of the abducted students and teachers.
In light of the recent abductions, including those in Kaduna, Borno, and Sokoto states, the Defence Headquarters has condemned the actions of the terrorists, labeling them as cowardly and desperate attempts to evade military operations.
Governors from the northern region have convened to discuss strategies for addressing the escalating insecurity, emphasizing the need for a coordinated and effective response to combat the menace.
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In a separate development, the Nigerian Army announced the successful rescue of seven individuals, including women and infants, who had been kidnapped in Niger State and held captive in Zamfara State. The rescue operation, conducted by troops of the Hadarin Daji, reflects ongoing efforts to counter the activities of criminal elements in the region.
As the security situation continues to evolve, stakeholders are urged to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding communities and ensuring the protection of innocent lives.
