By Suleiman Anyalewechi
It was a comic end to an otherwise tragic episode early Sunday morning March 24 2024 ,following the announcement of the release from captivity of about 300 school children. They were abducted by bandits in the Kuriga area of Chikun Local Council Area of Kaduna State. The announcement of their release was made by a relieved Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani.
The release of the hapless pupils/ students of LEA Primary School and Government Secondary School Kuriga is coming after 16 days in the kidnapers den. They were whisked away early morning of Monday March 7 2024.
The Kaduna state Governor did not mention at what cost, human and/or material their freedom was secured .
Neither were Nigerians and the global Community informed about the eventual role played by the self acclaimed banditry and kidnappings negotiator ,Sheikh Abubakar Gumi in securing the freedom of the abducted school children.
However, Governor Sani thanked President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering commitment and dedication to securing the release of the school children unhurt.
In a statement which he personally signed, the Governor paid tribute to the National Security Adviser NSA ,Malam Nuhu Ribadu whom he said spent several sleepless nights coordinating activities that eventually culminated in securing freedom for the school children.
The statement which was posted on his official site ,also, acknowledged the patriotic and professional roles of the Nigerian Army and other Security Agencies in ensuring the safe release of the abducted school children,while also appreciating all Nigerians whose fervent prayers contributed to the rescue operation.
Although released, the audacious and brazen Kuriga abductions have re- awaken in not a few Nigerians and in deed ,the civilized world, the sad memory of the infamous kidnap of the Chibok School girls during President Good luck Jonathan’s administration. Many are questioning the real motives, as well as when Nigeria will see the last of such barbaric expeditions.
Meanwhile President Tinubu on Sunday hailed the released of the abducted Kuriga School children, promising to ensure the safety of the country’s school environments
In a statement issued by his Spokesman Ajuri Ngelale , the President emphasized the need for collaborations between the Federal Government and State authorities in periods of challenges for maximum results. He, also, appreciated the efforts of the Kaduna State Government and the National Security Adviser for their commitment to the safe return of the school children.
The President also acknowledged and appreciated the release of the 19 Tsangaya school children in Sokoto State.
