By DIP CONNECT ONLINE NEWS
The Presidency has disclosed that no ransom was paid and no terrorist was released in exchange for the freedom of the pupils and teachers rescued after spending 56 days in captivity in Oriire, Ogbomoso, Oyo State.
In an update issued on Friday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealed that the operation resulted in the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers, who are now in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), while other members of the criminal gang were neutralised.
Onanuga said the kidnappers had demanded the release of one of their leaders as a condition for freeing the victims, but the Federal Government rejected the request.
According to him, the terrorist kingpin remains on trial for previous crimes, underscoring the government's resolve not to negotiate with criminal elements or compromise the course of justice.
"The kidnappers demanded the release of one of their kingpins, but there was no quid pro quo. He is being prosecuted for his atrocities," Onanuga stated.
He added that security agencies would, in due course, provide a detailed account of the intelligence-led operation that secured the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
The latest revelation sheds more light on the rescue mission and reinforces the Federal Government's position that criminal groups will not be rewarded with concessions in exchange for hostages.
Adeola Kunle
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