The Federal Government of Nigeria has reacted to a publication circulating in the media, attributed to international wire services, alleging that the Nigerian Government paid a “huge” ransom, including the release of militant commanders, to secure the freedom of the schoolchildren abducted from St Mary’s boarding school in Niger State.
The Federal Government, in a statement signed by the
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, stated that
these allegations are completely false and baseless, and constitute a
disservice to the professionalism and integrity of Nigeria’s security forces
and the sacrifices they make daily.
“While we respect the freedom of the press, we firmly reject
a narrative built on shadowy, unnamed sources seeking to undermine the
credibility of a sovereign government acting within its laws,” the statement
said.
“For the avoidance of doubt, no ransom was paid, and no
militant commanders were freed.
“The allegations rely entirely on anonymous ‘intelligence
sources’ and individuals’ ‘familiar with the talks,’ in contrast to the clear
and on-the-record denials issued by constituted authorities.
“The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the
Department of State Services (DSS), and the leadership of the National Assembly
have all publicly refuted claims of ransom payment.
“The report itself reveals contradictions that expose its
speculative character, presenting sharply conflicting accounts regarding the
alleged ransom.
“Such inconsistency underscores a lack of direct knowledge
and undermines the credibility of the claims. The assertion that ransom was
delivered by helicopter to insurgents, with cross-border confirmation of
receipt, is fiction. The DSS has formally dismissed this claim as fake and
laughable.
“Nigeria is confronting a structured, profit-driven criminal
enterprise. The successful rescue of the pupils, without casualty, was the
result of professional intelligence and operational precision.
“The Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment
to security and urges the media to verify facts before publishing speculative
reports that risk emboldening criminals or undermining troop morale.”
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