Metro
Trending

287 Kaduna schoolchildren abducted by bandits rescued after 16 days in captivity

The 287 Nigerian pupils and teachers who were abducted by bandits on March 7 from their schools in Kaduna
State, north-west Nigeria, have regained their freedom after spending 16 days in captivity.

The hostages were abducted when the heavily armed terrorists invaded LGEA Primary and Secondary Schools in Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area of the state and whisked them away to an unknown destination.

The State Governor, Uba Sani, who made the announcement in a statement on Sunday morning, said the schoolchildren and teachers were released on Saturday night unconditionally.

The statement which was personally signed by the Governor stated:

“I wish to announce that our Kuriga school children have been released.

“Our special appreciation goes to our dear President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for prioritising the safety and security of Nigerians and particularly ensuring that the abducted Kuriga school children are released unharmed.

“While the school children were in captivity, I spoke with Mr. President several times. He shared our pains, comforted us, and worked round the clock with us to ensure the safe return of the children.”

Sani also expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their professionalism in the successful rescue of the pupils, said they played a pivotal role in the whole episode.

“The Nigerian Army also deserves special commendation for showing that with courage, determination and commitment, criminal elements can be degraded and security restored in our communities.

“We also thank all Nigerians who prayed fervently for the safe return of the school children. This is indeed a day of joy. We give Almighty Allah all the glory.”

The rescue of the schoolchildren is coming three days to March 27 ultimatum the bandits had given the government for a N1 billion ransom to be paid for the captives to be freed or they would all be killed.

There was also no mention of any ransom paid for the release of the victims by the government in the statement.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button