Nigeria Denies Paying Ransom Amid School Kidnap Controversy
The Nigerian government is facing scrutiny over its handling of a mass abduction that occurred last November, as new reports allege it may have paid a substantial ransom to secure the safe return of kidnapped students.
On November 21, 2025, over 300 students were taken from St Mary Catholic School in the Agwara district of Niger State. Following the harrowing event, the government successfully negotiated the release of more than 100 pupils by December 7, leading to the eventual release of the remaining hostages.
However, a recent report from Agence France-Presse (AFP) alleges that the government facilitated a “huge” ransom payment to the militant group Boko Haram. The report states that intelligence sources indicated a helicopter was dispatched to Gwaza in Borno State to deliver the ransom to a Boko Haram commander named Ali Ngulde.
In response to these claims, the Nigerian government vehemently denied any such transaction. Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, characterized the allegations as “false and baseless.” He criticized the media narrative and emphasized that the claims serve as a disservice to Nigeria’s security forces.
Idris denounced the report’s assertion that ransom was delivered by helicopter, calling it “fictitious and laughable.” He stressed the importance of preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s security personnel and their ongoing efforts to combat insurgency.
“While we respect the freedom of the press, we strongly reject a narrative built on shadowy, unnamed sources seeking to undermine the credibility of a sovereign government acting within its laws,” he stated. Idris further affirmed, “For the avoidance of doubt, no ransom was paid, and no militant commanders were freed.”
The Minister’s statement is echoed by several national security agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the State Security Services (SSS), both of which have reassured the public that no financial exchange occurred. Idris described the claims regarding ransom as riddled with contradictions, emphasizing the speculative nature of the report.
“The successful rescue of the pupils, without casualty, was the result of professional intelligence and operational precision,” he added. This assertion reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining public safety and countering organized crime in the region.
The abduction has not only raised concerns about security in Nigeria but also the potential repercussions of media reporting that could embolden criminal activity or diminish the morale of security forces. Idris urged journalists and media organizations to exercise due diligence and verify information before disseminating potentially damaging narratives.
The ongoing threat from groups like Boko Haram continues to pose challenges to Nigeria, where kidnappings have become a persistent issue affecting schools and communities. Families affected by such incidents are left grappling with fear and uncertainty, making the stakes incredibly high.
As the situation unfolds, the Nigerian government remains steadfast in its resolve to tackle the growing menace of kidnapping and terrorism while navigating the intricate dynamics of media relationships and public perception.
— Reported by Nexio News
