LunagisthubNo Ransom Paid for Release of Kidnapped Victims, FG Says
The Federal Government has clarified that it does not negotiate with or pay ransom to terrorists, despite claims surrounding the release of kidnapped schoolchildren. Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, emphasized that the government maintains a zero-tolerance policy on negotiation with terrorists
Bwala explained that paying ransom to terrorists only fuels their activities and allows them to buy more weapons. Instead of targeting the terrorists themselves, ransom payments only enable them to continue their nefarious activities. He stressed that the government will not tolerate the idea of negotiation, as it constructively finances terrorism
When asked about the release of the Kebbi schoolgirls and St. Mary’s children, Bwala attributed their release to various factors, including pressure from negotiators, religious leaders, or intelligence operations, as well as interventions by families or state governments. However, he emphasized that the Federal Government did not pay any ransom
Bwala dismissed the terrorists’ claims of negotiating with the government, saying that it’s a tactic to inflict fear and manipulate public opinion. He added that the government is focused on solving the problem of insecurity rather than engaging in public relations
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