In a recent development, the Federal Government reaffirmed that no ransom was exchanged for the safe release of the abducted Kuriga children in Kaduna State. Speaking to State House correspondents following the Federal Executive Council meeting, Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris emphasized that the collaborative efforts of national security agencies led to the successful recovery of the victims.

Idris underlined President Bola Tinubu's commitment to breaking the pattern of ransom payments to kidnappers, asserting that such payments only embolden criminal elements. He reiterated the government's official stance, announced the previous week, that ransom payments will not be entertained or supported.

Furthermore, the minister expressed the administration's unwavering determination to stamp out abductions across the nation. He disclosed that the Nigerian Armed Forces have devised a novel strategy to bolster national security, though the specifics of their approach remain confidential.

When questioned about the government's silence regarding remarks made by Islamic scholar Sheikh Abubakar Gumi on bandit activities, Idris clarified that the government welcomes constructive advice to address the insecurity challenge. However, he cautioned against reckless comments that could exacerbate security issues, affirming the government's readiness to take action against such provocations.