The 287 school children abducted by bandits more than two weeks ago at Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have been released.
The state Governor, Mallam Uba Sanni, confirmed the release of the school children via a press statement he personally signed in the morning of Sunday, 24 March, 2024.
The Governor while confirming the release, acknowledged the efforts of all Nigerians, particularly the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu in ensuring that the children returned home safely.
He confirmed that they were safe and in good health.
On Thursday, 7 March, 2024, bandits stormed Kuriga and abducted 287 pupils of Kuriga Secondary School and LEA Primary School, and later demanded for N1 billion ransom before the children could be released.
At a time, they even threatened to kill the children if their demand was not met.
Below is the full statement from Governor Uba Sanni on the matter:
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.
Senator Uba Sani, Governor, Kaduna State.
