President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stated unequivocally that no ransom will be paid for the rescue of the school children abducted from a primary school in Kuriga, Kaduna State. This declaration was made during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, briefed State House Correspondents after the FEC meeting, confirming Tinubu’s directive to the defence to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted children.
Tinubu reiterated his stance against paying ransom to kidnappers, emphasizing the government’s determination to tackle kidnapping and other criminal activities in the country. Minister Idris emphasized Tinubu’s directive, stating, “Mr. President has also directed that no ransom will be paid by government to any of these criminal elements. I think it’s important that this be put out there.”
The President’s declaration comes amidst ongoing efforts to secure the release of the abducted children. It also contrasts with the recent announcement by Kaduna-based Muslim cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, who expressed his intention to engage in dialogue with the bandits responsible for the abduction.
Gumi had proposed negotiation as a means to facilitate the release of the abducted children, urging Tinubu to grant him the opportunity to negotiate. He cautioned against repeating the perceived mistake made by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who declined to engage in dialogue with bandits.
President Tinubu’s firm stance against ransom payment underscores the government’s commitment to combating kidnapping and ensuring the safety of citizens, particularly vulnerable children.
