Federal Government Affirms No Ransom Payment for Release of Kaduna School Children
Idris emphasized the commitment of President Muhammadu Buhari to resolving the abduction crisis without yielding to ransom demands
AKACHI NOEL 
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially stated that no ransom was paid for the release of 137 pupils who were kidnapped from Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State. Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, made the announcement after the Federal Executive Council meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Idris emphasized the commitment of President Muhammadu Buhari to resolving the abduction crisis without yielding to ransom demands. He expressed gratitude to the security services for their efforts in safely securing the return of the abducted pupils. The President also pledged to ensure that all individuals involved in the kidnapping would be identified and punished accordingly.
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The abduction took place on March 6 when armed terrorists on motorcycles stormed the school, triggering condemnation from both local authorities and the international community, including UNICEF. Contrary to earlier reports suggesting the rescue of 287 pupils, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed the successful rescue of 137 pupils through a joint operation involving the military and local authorities in Zamfara State.
The government's stance on engaging with Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a Kaduna-based Muslim cleric who offered to negotiate with the abductors, was clarified by the minister. While acknowledging the importance of gathering constructive suggestions for solving security challenges, Idris asserted that individuals, including Sheikh Gumi, would be held accountable if their statements were deemed reckless.
The Nigerian government remains resolute in its efforts to ensure the safety and security of its citizens, particularly school children, in the face of ongoing security threats across the country.
