JUST IN: 287 abducted Kaduna schoolchildren regain freedom

The Kaduna State Government has announced the release of the 287 schoolchildren and teacher kidnapped from Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area of the state.

The state governor, Senator Uba Sani, made the announcement in a statement late Saturday night, confirming the freedom of the school children.

The statement reads: “In the name of Allah the Beneficent, 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 fine-tuning 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.“

The 287 schoolchildren and principal of LEA Primary School and Government Secondary School, Kuriga, were abducted on March 7, 2024 by gunmen who took them into the forest.

The abductors demanded N1bn for their release while giving a deadline of March 27, 2024, for the payment of the ransom.