National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has strongly discouraged the payment of ransom to kidnappers and other criminal groups, warning that such actions only fuel further violence and abductions.
He issued this warning during the handover of more than 60 individuals who had been held hostage for over a month in Kaduna State.
The freed victims include a deputy director in the civil service and a family member of Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, all of whom are from Zango Kataf in Southern Kaduna.
Their rescue was made possible through coordinated efforts by security forces who intensified pressure on the kidnappers’ hideouts.
Ribadu, while transferring the rescued persons—35 men, 29 women, and several children—to the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar, urged families to resist the urge to negotiate with criminals through ransom payments.
He emphasized that funding such groups only strengthens their operations and prolongs insecurity in the country.
According to him, the federal government has never offered money to kidnappers in exchange for freedom and advised citizens to adopt the same stance.
He noted that giving in to ransom demands often leads to increased expectations and repeated attacks.
He commended the Armed Forces for their dedication and persistence in tracking down criminal elements and freeing the victims.
He also acknowledged the ongoing support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, crediting his leadership for the progress made in tackling national security threats.
Ribadu assured that while rescue operations are essential, authorities will also pursue and prosecute those behind these crimes.
In his remarks, Defence Minister Mohammed Abubakar expressed appreciation for the security operatives working tirelessly to confront the country’s security challenges.
He encouraged citizens to continue sharing useful intelligence, stressing that public cooperation is vital for successful operations.
One of the rescued hostages, Adesiyam Michael, shared his personal ordeal.
He recounted the trauma of seeing his wife shot by their captors.
He described the kidnappers as teenagers with little education or vocational training.
He called for urgent intervention to redirect such youths towards meaningful opportunities and away from criminal lifestyles.