FG Dismisses Reports of Ransom Payment for Release of Schoolchildren

‎The federal government through the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, has refuted publications in the media space that it paid huge ransom, including the release of militant commanders, to secure the freedom of the schoolchildren abducted from St. Mary’s boarding school in Niger State.
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‎In a rebuttal on Tuesday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, fnipr, the Federal Government stated that these allegations are completely false and baseless, and constitute a disservice to the professionalism and integrity of Nigeria’s security forces and the sacrifices they make daily.
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‎Federal government said, “While we respect the freedom of the press, we firmly reject a narrative built on shadowy, unnamed sources seeking to undermine the credibility of a sovereign government acting within its laws. For the avoidance of doubt, no ransom was paid, and no militant commanders were freed.
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‎”The allegations rely entirely on anonymous “intelligence sources” and individuals “familiar with the talks,” in contrast to the clear and on-the-record denials issued by constituted authorities. The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the leadership of the National Assembly have all publicly refuted claims of ransom payment.
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‎Continuing, “The report itself reveals contradictions that expose its speculative character, presenting sharply conflicting accounts regarding the alleged ransom. Such inconsistency underscores a lack of direct knowledge and undermines the credibility of the claims. The assertion that ransom was delivered by helicopter to insurgents, with cross-border confirmation of receipt, is fiction. The DSS has formally dismissed this claim as fake and laughable.”
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‎While acknowledging that Nigeria is confronting a structured, profit-driven criminal enterprise, the Federal Government said the successful rescue of the pupils without casualty, was the result of professional intelligence and operational precision.
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‎The Federal Government also reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to security and urged the media to verify facts before publishing speculative reports that risk emboldening criminals or undermining troop morale.
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