Abducted Kuriga school children released
The state governor, Senator Uba Sani, announced the release on Sunday .
The Governor commended President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Nigerian Army in the statement announcing the release of the school children.
He wrote, “In the name of Allah the Beneficient, the Most Merciful, I wish to announce that our Kuriga school children have been released.
“Our special appreciation goes to our dear President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for prioritizing 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.
“Special mention must also be made of our dear brother, the National Security Adviser, Mal. Nuhu Ribadu for his exemplary leadership. I spent sleepless nights with Mal. Ribadu finetuning strategies and coordinating the operations of the security agencies, which eventually resulted in this successful outcome.
“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.”
It would be recalled that bandits invaded LEA Primary School Kuriga and Junior Secondary School, Kuriga town, in Chikun Local Government Area of the state around 8am on March 7 and abducted 287 students including a principal, Abubakar Isah.
The incident happened immediately after the assembly briefing.
The abductors were reportedly demanded N1bn from the family to release the children, but both the state and federal governments insisted that no ransom would be paid.
President Tinubu had urged the military and other security agencies to do whatever it takes to rescue the children.