The Kaduna State Government has officially announced the release of the 287 schoolchildren who were kidnapped from Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State.
The news was conveyed in a statement signed by the state governor, Senator Uba Sani.
In the statement, Governor Uba Sani expressed gratitude for the safe return of the abducted children and extended special appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing the safety and security of Nigerians.
He commended President Tinubu for his unwavering support and efforts in ensuring the safe release of the Kuriga schoolchildren.
During the children’s captivity, Governor Sani had multiple conversations with the President, who empathized with their situation and collaborated tirelessly to secure their freedom.
The statement partly read, “I wish to announce that our Kuriga school children have been released.
“Our special appreciation goes to our dear President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for prioritising 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.”
The governor also appreciated the courage of the officers of the Nigerian Army for seeing to the successful release of the schoolchildren.
He said, “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.”
Recalling the harrowing events, it’s noted that the schoolchildren, hailing from LEA Primary School and Government Secondary School, Kuriga, were abducted on March 7, 2024. The abductors demanded a ransom of N1 billion for their release, setting a deadline of March 27, 2024, for the payment.
