The Federal Government of Nigeria rejects allegations circulating in sections of the international media claiming that a “huge” ransom is paid to secure the release of schoolchildren abducted from St. Mary’s Boarding School in Niger State, describing the report as false and misleading.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the Federal Government states that no ransom is paid and no militant commanders are released in the process of rescuing the pupils, contrary to claims attributed to unnamed intelligence sources.
In an official rebuttal, authorities describe the allegations as baseless and a disservice to the professionalism and sacrifice of Nigeria’s security forces, who are actively engaged in counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations across the country.
Mediaplusng.com reports that the government expresses concern over what it calls a narrative built on anonymous and unverifiable sources, insisting that constituted authorities have publicly and unequivocally denied any ransom transaction.
The Federal Government maintains that the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the leadership of the National Assembly all issue on-the-record statements refuting claims of ransom payment or the release of detained militant figures.
According to Mediaplusng.com, officials argue that the reliance on unnamed “intelligence sources” and individuals “familiar with the talks” contrasts sharply with official statements made by recognised government institutions responsible for national security.
Authorities further point to inconsistencies within the published reports, noting that conflicting figures and varying accounts of the alleged ransom undermine the credibility of the claims. The government asserts that such contradictions expose the speculative nature of the allegations.
In particular, the claim that ransom funds are delivered by helicopter to insurgents, with cross-border confirmation of receipt, is categorically dismissed. The DSS describes the assertion as fictitious and lacking any factual basis.
Government officials reiterate that Nigeria is confronting a structured, profit-driven criminal network engaged in kidnapping and extortion. They emphasise that security agencies rely on coordinated intelligence gathering, surveillance, and operational precision in responding to abduction incidents.
The successful rescue of the schoolchildren, authorities state, results from strategic planning and collaboration among security agencies, without loss of life. The government underscores that operational details cannot always be publicly disclosed due to national security considerations.
Officials also stress that spreading unverified information about ransom payments risks emboldening criminal elements and undermining troop morale at a time when security forces are intensifying efforts to dismantle kidnapping syndicates.
The Federal Government reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, strengthening intelligence capabilities, and upholding the rule of law in all security operations.
While acknowledging the importance of press freedom, authorities urge media organisations to prioritise verification, responsible reporting, and balanced sourcing when covering sensitive national security matters.
The rebuttal concludes with a renewed pledge that Nigeria’s security agencies remain resolute in combating kidnapping, insurgency, and organised crime, assuring citizens that efforts to protect vulnerable communities, including schools, continue without compromise.
