The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has issued a stern warning to Nigerians against paying ransom to terrorists in a bid to secure the release of kidnapped loved ones.
He said such payments not only fuel the operations of terrorist groups but also embolden them to continue their heinous acts.
Ribadu made this appeal during a high-profile event held in Abuja, where 60 kidnapped victims recently rescued by security forces were formally handed over to their families.
The reunion, filled with relief and emotion, underscored the Nigerian government’s renewed commitment to ending the scourge of terrorism and kidnapping across the country.
While receiving the victims from the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the NSA emphasized the dangerous consequences of ransom payments, stating that many victims remain in captivity despite large sums being paid.
“Paying ransom encourages these criminals and strengthens their operations. Many times, even after payments are made, victims are not released,” he said. “We will continue to go after them and ensure justice is served.”
He further reassured Nigerians that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains resolute in its mission to combat insecurity and terrorism.
He expressed deep appreciation to the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Minister of Defence, and other security agencies for their sacrifices and successes in the ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. “Our troops are doing an incredible job, and we are grateful for their bravery. We assure Nigerians that the security agencies will not relent in their duties,” Ribadu added.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all Nigerians.
He commended the troops for their resilience and assured the public that military operations against criminal elements would intensify. “We will not rest until every Nigerian is safe. Our troops are resilient, and we are recording more successes in our operations,” the Minister said.
In a detailed briefing, the Director General of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Major General Adamu Garba Laka, revealed that the rescue operations were carried out across multiple locations, involving precise intelligence gathering and coordinated tactical maneuvers. He praised the synergy among various security agencies that contributed to the safe rescue of the victims.
Speaking on behalf of the rescued victims, Assistant Director of the National Assembly Service Commission, Adesiyan Akinropo Michael, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the federal government and security forces.
He described the period of captivity as a nightmare. “We thank the government for not giving up on us. What we went through was hell, but we’re grateful to be alive,” he said.
In an emotional testimony, the brother of Catholic Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Ishaya Kukah who was also among those rescued, thanked President Tinubu and the military for their swift intervention. He described his ordeal as traumatic but commended the bravery and persistence of the security forces that brought them home safely.
As the 60 victims were reunited with their families, the federal government reiterated its position that no effort will be spared in the fight against terrorism.
The NSA urged Nigerians to support security efforts by providing useful information and resisting the temptation to engage with criminal elements through ransom payments.
LV