ABUJA, Nigeria: Over 250 school students abducted in a mass kidnapping in northwestern Nigeria have been released, bringing relief to the nation.
The incident, which occurred in Kuriga, Kaduna state, sparked widespread concern over insecurity, highlighting the persistent threat of bandit attacks.
Kaduna state governor Uba Sani announced the students’ safe return, expressing gratitude to security forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and all Nigerians for their prayers.
Bandits, notorious for their criminal activities, including mass kidnappings for ransom, were held responsible for the abductions. While ransom demands were reported, President Tinubu asserted a firm stance against payment. Despite Nigeria’s history of negotiating with kidnappers, recent legislation prohibits ransom payments, with officials denying any such transactions.
This successful outcome underscores the ongoing challenges posed by insecurity in Nigeria.