The African Democratic Congress, ADC, has called on the Federal Government to clarify reports alleging that over N10 billion was paid and detained insurgents released to secure the freedom of abducted pupils and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party said it was concerned about international media claims that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu made payments and freed two senior commanders of Boko Haram to secure the victims’ release.
While welcoming the safe return of those abducted, the party warned that such actions, if confirmed, could undermine national security efforts.
The party noted that authorities had earlier denied paying ransom following the release of the victims.
It also referenced the position of the National Security Adviser against ransom payments, stating that the law prohibits negotiations with kidnappers.
“Allegations of ransom payments at this scale raise serious concerns about terrorism financing, the rule of law, and the safety of citizens,” the statement said.
ADC urged the government to provide a clear account of events surrounding the abduction and rescue operation.
“The ADC calls on the federal government to issue a categorical explanation on whether any ransom, directly or indirectly, was paid and whether any detainees or captured terror actors were released,” the party stated, warning that any contradictory action could encourage future attacks.
The party further criticised what it described as inconsistency in government policy on ransom payments.
“No serious government will sacrifice national security principles on the altar of political expediency,” the statement added, stressing that clarity on the matter was necessary to maintain public trust and strengthen efforts against kidnapping and terrorism.