Terrorist in Kaduna State have abducted more than 286 students and staff, requesting a ransom of N1 billion ($620,432) for their safe release. Jubril Aminu, a community leader and spokesperson for the hostages’ families, received a call from the kidnappers on Tuesday, as reported by Reuters.”
“They made a total N1 billion ransom demand for all the pupils, students and staff of the school,” Aminu said.
“They gave an ultimatum to pay the ransom within 20 days, effective from the date of the kidnap. They said they will kill all students and staff if the ransom demand is not met.”
Idris Ibrahim, an elected official representing the Kuriga Ward municipal council, also verified the ransom demand and specified the amount.
“Yes, the kidnappers called the community through Jubrik Aminu’s number and made the demand, they called from a hidden number but the authorities are working on getting the number. The security forces are taking adequate measures to secure the release of the students.
The Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs in Kaduna State, Samuel Aruwan, did not provide an immediate comment regarding the kidnappers’ demand. Requests for comments from spokespersons for President Bola Tinubu and the army also did not respond to requests for comment. The Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, told reporters on Wednesday that Tinubu’s position on the kidnapping is Kuriga was that security forces should secure the hostages’ release without paying any ransom.