TheCable

President Bola Tinubu says the federal government will not pay ransom to kidnappers to secure the release of anyone abducted.

Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, quoted the president to have spoken during the weekly federal executive council (FEC) meeting on Wednesday.

Idris told State House correspondents after the FEC meeting that Tinubu directed the security agencies to ensure the safe return of those abducted in Kaduna and Borno states.

“Mr President reiterated his directive to security agencies and the ministry of defence to ensure that those kids that have been abducted by these criminal gangs are brought back to their homes safely,” he said.

“Mr President has also reiterated his zero tolerance for the payment of ransom, that was also mentioned by Mr President in council today.

“So, the security agencies are working round the clock. These children and people that have been abducted by criminal elements will be brought back to safety pretty soon.

“The security agencies are working hard in that direction. Mr President has also directed that no ransom will be paid by the government to any of these criminal elements. I think it’s important that this be put out there.”

Idris said several countries have offered to help in the rescue efforts of those who have been abducted.

“Other countries have also offered to support Nigeria. But what we can tell you is that the government is still reviewing these offers and the position of government will be made known to you,” he added.

“The president has directed that security agencies must as a matter of urgency, ensure that these children and all those who have been kidnapped are brought back in safety and also in the process to ensure that not a dime is paid for ransom.”

The minister added that the government is optimistic that all those abducted would be reunited with their families safely.