The spokesperson of the Senate, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, says the Federal Government did not pay ransom to secure the release of schoolchildren kidnapped in Kebbi and Niger states.
Adaramodu made the clarification on Friday during an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, following public suspicion over the rescue operations.
He stressed that despite ongoing debates on how the victims were freed, the government did not make any financial settlement to the kidnappers.
“From our side at the National Assembly, we believe the Federal Government did not pay any ransom to anybody. If there is any contact with the bandits, there are various types . It can be forceful, persuasive or a mix of both,” he said.
His comments come after Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, confirmed that security operatives contacted kidnappers to secure the release of victims in Kwara State.
Adaramodu explained that making contact does not automatically mean ransom was paid.
He noted that security agencies are under no obligation to disclose operational details. According to him, such information is sensitive and cannot be made public.
Adaramodu also addressed concerns that no images or reports showed captured gunmen after the rescue operations. He cautioned Nigerians against assuming there was no confrontation with the abductors.
“If you have not seen the corpses of abductors or them being handcuffed, that does not negate the possibility of intense confrontation,” he said.
He added that kidnappers often flee when they realise security forces are closing in. “When they sense superior firepower, they run and leave the victims behind,” he stated.
The spokesman revealed that the Senate has set up an ad-hoc committee to investigate the Kebbi school abduction. Early reports from state authorities and security agencies indicate that soldiers assigned to protect the school left their post shortly before the attackers arrived.
The committee will also look into the death of Brigadier General Musa Uba, who was involved in anti-banditry operations. His death has increased scrutiny on the military’s performance in dealing with rising insecurity.
Adaramodu emphasized that while lawmakers will continue to demand accountability, they will not expect security agencies to release tactical information.
“Their mandate is to rescue victims safely. How they execute that cannot be in the public domain,” he said.
He assured Nigerians that the Senate remains committed to supporting security agencies and improving safety across the country.
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