Nigeria Nigerian Security: Kaduna Kidnappers Send Chilling Message Demanding N1billion, Threaten to Kill Children in 20 Days

kidnappers in Kaduna have issued a chilling ultimatum, demanding a staggering N1 billion ransom for the release of abducted students and staff from the LEA Primary School Kuriga. The threat looms heavy as the kidnappers vow to end the lives of the hostages within 20 days if their demands remain unmet.

The Kuriga community, situated in the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, was plunged into chaos on March 7th, 2024, when armed bandits raided the LEA Primary School Kuriga, seizing approximately 286 students and several teachers. As the nation reels from this brazen act of violence, the fate of the abducted individuals hangs precariously in the balance.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a directive to security agencies and the Ministry of Defence, unequivocally stating that no ransom should be paid to kidnappers, bandits, or any criminal elements for the release of abducted persons. However, the steadfastness of this stance is tested as the lives of innocent schoolchildren teeter on the edge of peril.

Jubril Aminu, a community leader serving as a spokesman for the families of the hostages, revealed the grim demands made by the kidnappers. "They made a total of a 1 billion naira ransom demand for all the pupils, students, and staff of the school," Aminu stated. The kidnappers have set a deadline of 20 days for the ransom to be paid, warning of dire consequences should their demands go unfulfilled.

Idris Ibrahim, an elected official from the Kuriga Ward municipal council, confirmed the ransom demand and the exorbitant amount. "Yes, the kidnappers called the community through Jubril Aminu’s number and made the demand," Ibrahim affirmed. Despite the perpetrators using a hidden number, authorities are diligently working to trace its origin.

In response to the crisis, security forces have mobilized to secure the safe release of the abducted students. Idris Ibrahim assured the public that "adequate measures" are being taken to address the situation and bring the perpetrators to justice.