President Bola Tinubu has reiterated the federal government’s stance against paying ransom to kidnappers for the release of abducted individuals.
According to Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, the statement was made during the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Wednesday.
Addressing State House correspondents after the FEC meeting, Idris quoted Tinubu as directing security agencies to prioritize the safe return of those abducted in Kaduna and Borno states.
“Mr. President reiterated his directive to security agencies and the Ministry of Defense to ensure that those kidnapped by criminal gangs are brought back safely to their homes,” said Idris.
He emphasized Tinubu’s zero-tolerance stance on ransom payments, stating, “Mr. President has also reiterated his zero tolerance for the payment of ransom.”
Idris affirmed that the government is committed to ensuring the safe return of all abducted individuals, with security agencies working diligently towards that end.
He noted that despite offers of support from several countries, the government is reviewing these offers before making a decision.
“The president has directed that security agencies must, as a matter of urgency, ensure that these children and all those who have been kidnapped are brought back in safety,” Idris emphasized. “Not a dime is paid for ransom.”
The minister expressed optimism that all those abducted would soon be reunited with their families safely
