Breaking: We Didn’t Pay Ransom to Secure Kuriga Schoolchildren’s Release-FG

The federal government has refuted rumors circulating that 137 pupils kidnapped from Kuriga hamlet, Chikun LGA, Kaduna state, were released after a ransom was paid.

Mohammed Idris, the minister of information and national orientation, addressed reporters from the State House in Abuja on Monday

Idris said that the federal government had promised not to use ransom to free kidnapped people.

The minister commended the national security adviser (NSA) and service chiefs for the role they played in securing the release of the schoolchildren.

READ ALSO: Released Kuriga Students: Confusion Over Number Of Abductees

He said President Bola Tinubu has asked security agencies to intensify efforts to stop the menace of kidnapping across the country.

The minister said, “As promised by Mr. President, they have been rescued. No ransom was paid.

“The president has also charged security agencies to make sure kidnappings are brought to a halt, and all the perpetrators of kidnapping will be fished out and punished.”

THE MATRIX recalls that on March 7, the students were kidnapped by bandits who attacked their schools in the Kuriga community, Chikun LGA.