FG Declares No Ransom Payment for Abducted School Children, Considers International Assistance
The Federal Government has announced its refusal to pay any ransom for the release of more than 280 students and teachers abducted from Government Secondary School and LEA Primary School in Kuriga, Kaduna State, while considering offers of assistance from the United States and other countries.
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Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, conveyed the government's stance after Wednesday's Federal Executive Council meeting, emphasizing President Tinubu's directive against ransom payments to criminal elements. Despite the government's firm position, efforts are underway to secure the safe return of the kidnapped students and teachers.
The decision comes amidst growing concerns following the abduction on March 7, which saw armed assailants storming Kuriga in Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna, and forcibly taking the pupils and educators from both schools. The security agencies are actively engaged in efforts to ensure their safe release.
The postponement of ransom payment was reiterated by the government in response to offers of assistance, including dialogue proposals from Kaduna-based cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi. The government remains committed to resolving the situation without conceding to ransom demands, in line with its zero-tolerance policy towards criminal activities.
Acknowledging international support, particularly from the United States, President Tinubu's Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, highlighted ongoing collaborative efforts to secure the release of the abducted individuals.
While the government reviews the assistance offers, it emphasizes its determination to combat criminality and ensure the safety of citizens. President Tinubu has directed security agencies to intensify rescue operations and reaffirmed the government's resolve to prevent further abductions and criminal activities.
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As the situation unfolds, the government faces mounting pressure to swiftly resolve the crisis and ensure the safe return of the abducted students and teachers, underscoring the urgency of collaborative efforts and proactive security measures.
The Federal Government's refusal to pay ransom for the kidnapped school children reflects its unwavering commitment to combatting criminal activities and ensuring the safety of citizens. As efforts intensify to secure their release, the government remains open to international assistance while maintaining its zero-tolerance policy towards criminal elements.
